What is an appropriate action for a nurse when a child shows signs of pain?

Conducting a thorough pain assessment is essential when a child shows signs of pain. This action helps the nurse understand the intensity, location, type, and duration of the pain, which are critical elements in forming an effective pain management plan. Proper assessment includes asking the child about their pain, using age-appropriate pain scales, and considering the child's developmental stage to ensure accurate communication regarding their discomfort.

By taking this step, the nurse can determine the most appropriate interventions, including medication or non-pharmacological approaches, while also validating the child’s experience of pain. This comprehensive approach fosters a trusting relationship and encourages the child to communicate honestly about their pain levels in the future.

Moreover, immediately providing pain medication without assessment could lead to inappropriate treatment, missing the chance to identify the underlying cause, and may also overlook individual variations in pain response. Ignoring the child’s complaints or dismissing their feelings fails to acknowledge their experience and can lead to inadequate pain management, potentially compromising their overall well-being. Such actions may also negatively affect the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the patient.