The Effectiveness of Nonpharmacological Pain Reduction Methods in Preterm Infants

Medical intervention is required for positive growth
and improvement in newborns, especially preterm
infants. Premature infants often require heel-pricking
procedures, such as the Guthrie test, in order to
determine if the child has a variety of diseases such
as sickle cell anemia. The Guthrie test can have a
negative effect on the patients’ behavior and psychological
state: pain management in this procedure
is critical. There are several ways to reduce pain in
the patient including, but not limited to: swaddling,
breastfeeding, Kangaroo Mother Care method, oral
glucose, and lullaby music. The Kangaroo Mother
Care method and oral glucose are some of the more
effective pain management tools used during the
Guthrie test in preterm infants.