Evaluating pain management education for children after surgery

Evaluation of Post-PACU Pain Management Experiences in Pediatric Ambulatory Surgery Patients

Not applicable Interventional Columbia University · NCT02352116

This study tests if teaching kids about pain management after surgery helps them feel better and recover more smoothly compared to standard care.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment900 (estimated)
Ages1 Year to 6 Years
SexAll
SponsorColumbia University Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT02352116 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study assesses the impact of additional education on pain management for children recovering from ambulatory surgery. It compares two groups: one receiving face-to-face education about postoperative pain expectations and management, and the other receiving standard care. The study evaluates pain severity and satisfaction through parental reports and questionnaires at multiple time points post-surgery. Additionally, it examines behavioral changes in children during recovery to understand how these may influence their overall postoperative experience.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 1-6 years undergoing ambulatory surgical procedures with ASA status I or II.

Not a fit: Patients with ASA status III or IV, or those requiring inpatient recovery, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve postoperative pain management and satisfaction for pediatric patients and their families.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown that educational interventions can improve pain management outcomes in pediatric populations, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients ages 1-6 years undergoing ambulatory surgical procedures.
* Patients with an ASA status of I or II spending 23 hours or less recovering in the PACU and discharged home.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with an ASA status of III or IV.
* Patients admitted as inpatients or transferred to the PICU or inpatient for recovery, and any conditions that may affect pain expression or sensation.

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PainPostoperative ExperiencePostoperative Behavioral ChangesMaladaptive Behavioral Changes
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.