Pain assessment and procedural pain management practices in neonatal units in Australia

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To identify current pain assessment and procedural pain management practices in neonatal units in Australia. METHODS: Postal survey conducted during December 2003 and January 2004. The survey comprised questions relating to pain assessment scores, pain reduction strategies for minor painful procedures and the use of articulated policies relating to procedural pain management. Participants were the Nurse Unit Managers or their nominees of neonatal intensive care units, special care units and newborn emergency transport services in Australia. RESULTS: Surveys were sent to 181 eligible organizations, and 105 of these were returned (58%). Six units (6%) used pain assessment scores on ..