SLMHC announces new pediatric pain protocol in Emergency Department

Tim Brody - Editor

Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC) is welcoming the approval of a new protocol which is designed to enhance the care of pediatric patients visiting its Emergency Department who are experiencing pain. 
SLMHC informed in a July 10 media release, “This initiative, adapted from reputable institutions like SickKids, The Children’s Hospital of Winnipeg, and Lion’s Gate Hospital in North Vancouver, aims to provide safe, quick, and effective pain management options. 
“The pediatric pain protocol includes advanced technologies that utilize vibration and the “gate control” of pain, which helps to distract the nervous system during needle procedures. Additionally, the protocol offers various distraction tools, topical anesthetics (pain relievers), and inhaled medications (intranasal) for both pain relief and relaxation.”
SLMHC advised, “While not every child may be a suitable candidate for every method, the introduction of these options ensures that more effective pain management solutions are available. Although transforming the Emergency Department into an enjoyable place for children is challenging, the goal is to make it a little less intimidating and more tolerable for the children in our community and surrounding areas.” 
SLMHC says the initiative, “underscores our commitment to improving pediatric care and ensuring a compassionate, child-friendly environment in our Emergency Department.”
SLMHC noted that these strategies may also be used on adults as well. 
For more information about the SLMHC Emergency Department, people can visit www.slmhc.on.ca/ed.