Question

Age is a factor in different responses to pain. Which of the following age-related statements about pain is NOT true?

1. Preterm and newborn infants do not yet have functional pain pathways.
2. Painful experiences and prolonged exposure to analgesic drugs during pregnancy may permanently alter neuronal organization in the child.
3. Increases in the pain threshold in older adults may be related to peripheral neuropathies and changes in skin thickness.
4. Decreases in pain tolerance are evident in older adults.

Answer 1

Preterm and newborn infants do have functional pain pathways, although their pain responses may differ from adults.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that is NOT true is: Preterm and newborn infants do not yet have functional pain pathways. Infants are indeed capable of feeling pain as they have functional pain pathways, although their pain responses may differ from adults. Infants may exhibit different behavioral and physiological responses to pain compared to older individuals, but this does not mean that they do not experience pain at all. In fact, there is evidence that infants can perceive and respond to pain. For example, they may cry, exhibit changes in heart rate and blood pressure, and display other signs of distress when exposed to painful stimuli. It is important to recognize and manage pain in infants to ensure their well-being.