The family experience of cancer pain management in children.

This study describes the family perspective of cancer pain management in pediatric patients. Family caregiver knowledge and attitudes regarding pain, caregiver burden associated with pain, and caregiver moods were identified. This study was conducted in a children's hospital (n = 31) and a community hospice (n = 8) with family caregivers of pediatric cancer patients as the participants. Pain intensity was rated by children and family caregivers using pain assessment scales applicable to children with cancer. Differences in pain ratings were reported. The Family Pain Questionnaire was used to identify parents' knowledge and attitudes about pain and its management. Areas for family teaching were identified with the questionnaire. Understanding the pain experience from the perspective of family caregivers and their role in pain management can assist healthcare providers in relieving pain in children with cancer.