An analysis of research and clinical practice in neonatal pain management.
OBJECTIVE
To review the literature on neonatal pain management with a focus on historical misconceptions, ethical issues, barriers to practice, the role of the advanced practice nurse (APN), and suggested improvements.


METHODS
Selected research and review articles in nursing and medical literature.


CONCLUSIONS
Health care professionals agree that neonates experience pain and in turn deserve effective treatment. Research is controversial regarding the extent of pain management necessary in relation to short-term benefits and long-term consequences. Ethical issues arise when research supporting pain management is not consistently utilized in nursing practice.


CONCLUSIONS
Protocols and standardized pain management strategies have demonstrated a beneficial effect on overall patient outcomes. The APN is identified as being in the optimal position to facilitate enhanced neonatal pain management through research, education, and direct clinical care.
Rouzan
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Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, USA. drouzan@bellsouth.net
D000700:Analgesics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007224:Infant Care; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D015931:Intensive Care, Neonatal; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D024802:Nurse's Role; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic
D000700:Analgesics