Infant Journal
for neonatal and paediatric healthcare professionals

ROP screening: A question of how to manage infant pain

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a vasoproliferative condition affecting the retinal blood vessels of preterm and very low birthweight infants. It is a significant and preventable cause of visual impairment in childhood, so screening is crucial to prevent disease progression. Ophthalmologist examination is required, however, this can be uncomfortable and stressful as premature infants are highly sensitive to procedures. Studies show that inadequately managed pain can have significant consequences; it is important we monitor pain and implement ways to reduce it. This article examines current practice in the UK and the current literature.

Dr Rosalind Kelly
Paediatric ST4, Greater Glasgow and Clyde

Dr Christopher McCloy
Clinical Development Fellow, Paediatric ED, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow

Dr Jordan Wright
Registrar ED, Christchurch Hospital, New Zealand

Dr Sue Anne Lim
Consultant Neonatologist, University Hospital Crosshouse, Kilmarnock

Dr Raju Sunderesan Consultant Neonatologist, University Hospital Crosshouse raju.sunderesan@aapct.scot.nhs.uk

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Keywords
retinopathy of prematurity screening; non-pharmacological management; neonatal pain score, topical anaesthesia

Also published in Infant:

VOLUME 15/ISSUE 1, JANUARY 2019
Bliss funds research to understand pain in premature babies

Read more...