Analgesic effect of sucrose observed during heel prick in healthy neonates

ABSTRACT

To assess pain response during heel prick and compare analgesic effect of oral sucrose with placebo in response to pain associated with this procedure in healthy neonates. Randamoized controlled study Neonatal Unit Combined Military Hospital Multan from December 2006 to June 2007. This study was conducted on 60 healthy full term neonates with postnatal age 1-7 days who were assessed for pain response after heel prick. They were randomized into two groups. Newborns in group A were given 2ml 25% sucrose solution and group B neonates received 2ml sterile water as placebo 2 minutes before heel prick procedure. Pain was assessed by Premature Infant Pain Profile [PIPP] score and total duration of first cry. Increase in heart rate and decrease in oxygen saturation along with behavioral changes were observed in significant number of newborns who received placebo [group B]. While significant reduction in PIPP score and total duration of first cry was noted in neonates who were given oral sucrose [group A.] Perception of pain decreased significantly with oral sucrose. Sucrose can be used as safe and effective analgesic for minor procedure related pain