Pediatr Ann
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Recent evidence has documented the deleterious physiologic effects of pain and the beneficial results of effective postoperative analgesia. As outlined in this article, a three-step approach is recommended depending on the severity of pain. ⋯ All three choices may significantly impact on the efficacy of analgesia. While we continue to use primarily intravenous opioids to treat moderate and severe pain in the hospital setting, future formulations and developments may allow for the increased use of non-parenteral routes.