Non-pharmacological Pain Management in Pediatric Cancer Patients

Abstract

Pediatric patients with cancer experience a common symptom which is chronic pain, that majorly affects their quality of life, treatment, and recovery process. Cancer-related pain among this group of patients is specifically challenging due to their inability to perceive or express pain as easily as adults. Pharmacological pain management methods are widely used but, in some cases, complications such as high dependency and parental misconceptions call for the need of alternative interventions. The key concepts of this thesis demonstrate how non-pharmacological interventions are used integratively with pharmacological methods to lower pain and distress in children diagnosed with cancer. There exists a knowledge gap among healthcare professionals and caregivers concerning the care of children and adolescents according to their individual cancer-pain and treatment needs. Moreover, general principles applying to adults with cancer are used in the treatment of pediatric patients which is problematic because the younger population require specialized attention. This article is therefore significant in covering the contextual and knowledge gaps in the pain management of cancer-related pain among children and adolescents. The purpose of this study was to identify the effectiveness of different non-pharmacological techniques in reducing pain among pediatric cancer patients. This paper utilizes a descriptive literature review method, involving the synthesis of 25 articles published over the last 11 years and peer-reviewed. Key databases, including PubMed and CINAHL library were utilized for the research process and selection of relevant studies. The data were analyzed through inductive content analysis to identify recurring themes, effective practices, and gaps in existing research. The key concepts of this study highlight various non pharmacological methods including massage therapy, acupuncture, and physiotherapy or exercise, music, art, and play therapy, psychological and behavioral interventions as well as technology based methods such as virtual reality for distraction and mobile apps for interaction. However, inadequate knowledge and training for healthcare providers, barriers to implementation and cultural considerations and regulation theories were also identified. In conclusion, these non pharmacological strategies are effective if used integratively, with adequate training of nurses and delivery of insights to caregivers and patients on overcoming cultural fears as well as misconceptions.