PainFree Pediatrics at Boston Medical Center

Pediatrics – PainFree Program

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For Medical Professionals

Nonpharmacological Methods for Relieving Procedural Pain

Nonpharmacological interventions include approaches to pain management that do not involve medications. They are non-invasive strategies that increase comfort, improve coping and give children a sense of control. Either alone or in conjunction with pain medication, these strategies are proven successful for the reduction of pain and the associated anxiety. In an attempt to offer family-centered care, these techniques further promote parental involvement and satisfaction. Nonpharmacological techniques are very safe and easily accessible by all members of the health care team.

Suggested Modalities

  • Art, Play, & Music
  • Breastfeeding
  • Choices & Control
  • Deep Breathing
  • Deep Pressure & Massage
  • Distraction
  • Environment
  • Guided Imagery
  • Medical Play
  • Non-nutritive Sucking
  • Positioning
  • Post Procedural Comforting
  • Parental Involvement
  • Preparation
  • Relaxation
  • Skin to Skin Contact
  • Swaddling
  • Warm Packs

Methods chosen depend upon developmental age of child and the preference of that child and family. At BMC we have Distraction Boxes in the inpatient treatment rooms. They contain suitable materials for infants through adolescents. Sample materials include: rattles, board books, toys that spin or make noise, balls to squeeze, pinwheels, glitter wands and books for school aged children.

Contact Us

Call: 617.414.5762


Boston Medical Center
Department of Pediatrics
PainFree Pediatrics Program
Dowling Building
6 South, Room 6012
771 Albany Street
Boston, MA 02118


Learn More

Quick Links

Directions to BMC
BMC Campus Virtual Tour
Pediatrics Home

Downloads (PDF)

BMC Campus Map
What Makes BMC Special
Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committee Medication Guidelines
PainFree Treatment Card


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