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Heath, Nicola (2008) Neonatal Pain Management. [Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Throughout history the main focus within neonatology has been the survival of neonates. They receive numerous procedures essential for their survival. However the pain control for these lifesaving procedures was and still is forgotten and mistreated. Due to the 20 year history of debate and controversy about the existence and management of neonatal pain it has taken years to fully establish that neonates feel painful stimuli. There are obvious immediate, short-term consequences of repetitive painful stimuli but the long-term consequences may be more sinister. More pertinent consequences are being raised such as; altered development of the immature brain and pain system caused by repetitive noxious stimuli.

The purpose of the literature review was to identify if procedural pain management was a problem, exploring factors that influenced its management.

In Neonatal unit���¢��������s painful procedures such as heel-pricks are frequently undertaken without appropriate pain relief and yet there is considerable evidence supporting the administration of sucrose to relieve the pain of heel-pricks in neonates. This form of analgesia is best given alongside non-nutritive sucking two minuets before a procedure. Guidelines were recently introduced to the NICU. However it remains evident that there is a persistent theory-practice gap concerning neonatal pain management. There continues to be inadequate implementation, education and training of policy guidelines.

From the analysis of the literature and evidence observed in practice on the NICU lack of knowledge about pain, recognition pain and low use of sucrose in practice and the major factors influencing pain management. Change in neonatal procedural pain management practice is possible through the use of Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle. Staff nurses are the key working force in planning, implementing and sustaining the change. Aids such as reminder cards, sucrose pre-prescription charts and training sessions from peers would help with the success of the change.

Item Type:	Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)
Keywords:	MNursSci, Master Of Nursing Science, Literature Review, Neonatal, Pain Management
Depositing User:	EP, Services
Date Deposited:	02 Dec 2008
Last Modified:	31 Dec 2017 17:57
URI:	https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/22537

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