Infant Journal
Browse articlesROP 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 KellyPaediatric 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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- Retinopathy of prematurity screening is a painful procedure and preterm infants are more vulnerable to immediate and long-term effects of pain.
- Pain should be monitored using a validated pain score.
- Non-pharmacological methods such as swaddling, sucrose and supportive positioning are widely used to reduce pain.
- Topical anaesthesia is the only analgesic method with supporting evidence.
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