Scientific Sessions

Pediatric pain management focuses on the assessment, prevention, and treatment of acute and chronic pain in children, recognizing that pain can significantly impact physical, emotional, and developmental well-being. Children experience pain differently from adults, and effective management requires age-appropriate assessment tools and tailored interventions. Advances in pharmacologic treatments, including weight-based dosing, non-opioid analgesics, and nerve-targeted therapies, have improved safety and efficacy. Complementary approaches, such as physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, distraction techniques, and relaxation strategies, are increasingly used to enhance comfort and reduce anxiety during medical procedures.

Pediatric palliative care emphasizes a holistic approach to children with life-limiting or chronic illnesses, aiming to improve quality of life for both patients and their families. Early integration of palliative care ensures symptom relief, emotional support, and guidance in decision-making, while addressing social, spiritual, and psychological needs. Innovations such as home-based palliative programs, telemedicine consultations, and multidisciplinary care teams have expanded access and continuity of care. Collaboration among physicians, nurses, psychologists, and social workers ensures comprehensive support for symptom management, psychosocial well-being, and family counseling. Together, pediatric pain management and palliative care combine medical expertise with compassionate, child-centered approaches, helping children live with dignity, comfort, and improved quality of life despite serious health challenges.