Pain is one of the most common complaints that nurses treat (Brunner, Suddarth & Smeltzer, 2008). Despite the existence of many pharmacological and nonpharmacological pain management strategies, eighty six percent of children experience severe pain two days after a tonsillectomy (Dorkham, Chalkiadis, Sternberg & Davidson, 2013). This essay will explore the concept of acute pain, and its potential nursing management strategies in relation to a three year old undergoing a tonsillectomy. The main features of the patient group will be discussed, followed by a definition of acute pain, and how it relates to this particular patient group. Key nursing assessments, and nursing management strategies that relate specifically to acute postoperative pain
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If the child has a secure attachment with their parental figure, they will seek them out in times of distress (Pagé, 2013). Three year olds may have a limited understanding of hospitals, and the procedures that take place within them (Brewer et al., 2006). For some children, the new environment may be frightening and evoke feelings of anxiety (Brewer et al., 2006). Children of this age group are also beginning to pick up on nonverbal cues from their caregivers, so if they observe parental anxiety, their own anxiety levels may increase (Helgadóttir & Wilson, 2014; Pagé …show more content…
It is an entirely subjective and personal experience, however it affects individuals of every sex, race, age and background (Brunner, Suddarth & Smeltzer, 2008). Pain is often categorised by its duration; acute or chronic (Macintyre & Schug, 2014). Unlike chronic pain, acute pain is experienced for a short period of time, and is expected to resolve as the damaged tissue heals (Macintyre & Schug, 2014). Acute pain is generally caused by a particular injury, surgical trauma or acute illness, and is an expected physiological response (Macintyre & Schug,
If the child has a secure attachment with their parental figure, they will seek them out in times of distress (Pagé, 2013). Three year olds may have a limited understanding of hospitals, and the procedures that take place within them (Brewer et al., 2006). For some children, the new environment may be frightening and evoke feelings of anxiety (Brewer et al., 2006). Children of this age group are also beginning to pick up on nonverbal cues from their caregivers, so if they observe parental anxiety, their own anxiety levels may increase (Helgadóttir & Wilson, 2014; Pagé …show more content…
It is an entirely subjective and personal experience, however it affects individuals of every sex, race, age and background (Brunner, Suddarth & Smeltzer, 2008). Pain is often categorised by its duration; acute or chronic (Macintyre & Schug, 2014). Unlike chronic pain, acute pain is experienced for a short period of time, and is expected to resolve as the damaged tissue heals (Macintyre & Schug, 2014). Acute pain is generally caused by a particular injury, surgical trauma or acute illness, and is an expected physiological response (Macintyre & Schug,