PAIN MANAGEMENT IN TERMINAL PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS

Abstract

Pain management in cancer patients with high disease staging is considered a challenge for the multidisciplinary team. In pediatric oncology, the best treatment options for terminally ill patients are palliative care and pain control to improve the patient's quality of life. Thus, the present study aims to understand pain management in terminally ill pediatric cancer patients to improve quality of life and alleviate suffering. The study is an integrative review through the search for articles on the PubMed and Virtual Health Library platforms. Pain assessment in pediatric oncology is one of the main determinants of therapy and should be performed individually and according to age group. The improvement of this symptom favors the performance of procedures. Thus, promoting a safe and welcoming hospital environment helps the child to face the condition more comfortably. In addition, palliative care programs should not be centered only on patients, they should cover the health and well-being of family members and also the professional health team involved in the child's treatment. Thus, it is evident that the assessment of pain and its management is of fundamental importance in children diagnosed with cancer, especially those who are in a terminal state. Thus, the use of scales, protocols, recreational activities can help manage pain and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.