Acute paediatric pain management: A survey of doctors’ knowledge, attitudes and reported practices at regional hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Paediatric pain remains common yet inadequately addressed in Southern Africa. This study identifies insufficient training, poor access to analgesia, and departmental practices as key barriers. Context-specific, cost-effective, multimodal strategies and tailored education are needed to improve care. Sustainable progress requires cultural change, better training, and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure equitable pain management.