Child Life Exam Pain Management 2

Question 1

Which pain scale is most appropriate for a 3-year-old child who is non-verbal?

Accepted Answer

FLACC scale

Answer

The FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) scale is a behavioral observational tool validated for non-verbal and preverbal children.

Question 2

A child life specialist is preparing a 7-year-old for a venipuncture. Which cognitive-behavioral strategy is MOST effective for procedural pain management?

Accepted Answer

Guided imagery and distraction

Answer

Guided imagery and distraction are evidence-based non-pharmacologic cognitive-behavioral strategies that reduce procedural pain and anxiety in school-age children.

Question 3

What is the primary goal of providing accurate preparatory information to a child before a painful procedure?

Accepted Answer

To reduce anxiety and increase sense of control

Answer

Accurate preparation reduces uncertainty-related anxiety and gives children a sense of control, which lowers perceived pain intensity.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the gate control theory of pain as it applies to child life practice?

Accepted Answer

Non-painful stimuli can modulate pain signals in the spinal cord

Answer

Gate control theory explains that non-painful sensory input (touch, vibration, distraction) can 'close the gate' on pain signals traveling to the brain, informing many CLS interventions.

Question 5

An adolescent rates their post-surgical pain as 8/10 but appears calm and is watching TV. How should the child life specialist respond?

Accepted Answer

Accept the self-report as the primary indicator and advocate for pain management

Answer

Self-report is the gold standard for pain assessment; an adolescent's numeric rating must be accepted and advocated for regardless of outward appearance.

Child Life Exam Practice Test

Child Life Exam Practice Test

Child Life Exam Pain Management 2