In this overview of paediatric pain management the physiological and psychological effects of untreated pain are described. Reasons for the undertreatment of pain are identified as incorrect assumptions about children and pain; personal attitudes of families, nurses and physicians; inadequate research and training; and assessment difficulties. The problems of paediatric pain assessment are considered and an assessment strategy known as QUESTT is presented. Pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions are discussed and the conclusion reached that despite the difficulties, infant and child pain can be controlled by using adequate nursing knowledge and treatment.