Skin Conductance Monitoring for Pain in Children
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial focuses on finding a better way to measure pain in young children who cannot speak. It uses a Skin Conductance Monitor, which measures skin conductance (indicating sweat levels) to provide an objective, continuous assessment of pain. The study aims to improve the understanding and management of pain during procedures like palatal repair or tonsil/adenoid removal. Children under 5 years old, who are not on chronic pain treatment and have not used painkillers before surgery, may qualify for this trial. As an unphased study, this trial offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could transform pediatric pain management.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it excludes children who are on chronic pain treatment or have used pain relievers before surgery.
What prior data suggests that this skin conductance monitor is safe for children?
Research has shown that skin conductance monitoring for assessing pain levels in children and infants is safe. This method measures pain continuously and objectively without harming the patient. Studies have not reported any negative effects, indicating it is well-tolerated and safe for young children.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about skin conductance monitoring for pain in children because it offers a non-invasive way to objectively measure pain. Unlike traditional methods, which rely on subjective assessments like asking a child to rate their pain, this approach uses a device that detects changes in skin conductance linked to pain responses. This technology could provide more accurate and immediate feedback, potentially leading to better pain management for young patients.
What evidence suggests that skin conductance monitoring is effective for pain assessment in children?
Research shows that skin conductance monitoring safely measures pain in children and infants. Studies have found that this method accurately predicts pain levels after surgery, reliably indicating when a child is in pain. As an objective tool, skin conductance monitoring does not rely solely on observing signs of pain, making it a valuable addition to traditional methods. Recent studies highlight its usefulness in neonatal intensive care units, where accurate pain measurement is crucial. Overall, skin conductance monitoring offers a promising way to assess pain in children who cannot speak. In this trial, all participants will undergo skin conductance monitoring to evaluate its effectiveness in assessing pain.23678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Priti G Dalal, MD, FRCA
Principal Investigator
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 0-3 years undergoing palatal repair surgery, who are generally healthy (ASA status 1 or 2). It's not suitable for kids with allergies to anesthetics, sleep apnea, cystic fibrosis, serious health conditions (ASA status ≥3), older than 3 years, on chronic pain treatment or taking painkillers before surgery.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Surgical Procedure and Initial Postoperative Care
Standard general anesthetic mask induction, blood drawn for genetic analysis, and application of skin conductance monitor in the PACU
Postoperative Monitoring
Skin conductance values and pain scores recorded every 5 minutes for 1 hour in the PACU
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Skin Conductance Monitor
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Lead Sponsor