Emergency analgesia in the paediatric population. Part II Pharmacological methods of pain relief.

LOCAL ANAESTHETIC Local anaesthesia provides a simple, cheap, and relatively safe adjunct to manage children’s pain in the accident and emergency (A&E) department. It has the advantage that with appropriate training and supervision, most techniques can be performed by a junior A&E doctor. A major disadvantage of local anaesthesia is the pain and fear associated with injection, although this can be minimised by applying the anaesthetic topically or by using warmed, buffered lignocaine (lidocaine) for injection. Pain can also be reduced by using a narrow gauge needle and giving the injection slowly. As with any procedure in children, it is essential to take the time to explain the procedure fully to both parent and child, in a manner appropriate to the child’s age and understanding.