[The use of sucrose for the prevention of pain during venipuncture in neonates]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of sucrose use in the prevention of pain during venipuncture in neonates.

Method: Double blind randomized control trial. The population consisted of hospitalized neonates subjected to venipuncture. Sample size was calculated with a 95% confidence level, 80% power, minimum proportion of neonates with pain 40% in the study group and 70% in the control group. The minimum sample size was 49 newborns per group. Five minutes before venipuncture, the neonates received 1cc of oral solution of 12% sucrose (study group) or distilled water (control group). During the procedure the pain level was evaluated with NIPS (Neonatal Infant Pain Scale). A data base was created, and the information processed and analysed using the SPSS program.

Results: A total of 111 neonates were analysed, (55 in study group and 56 in control group). Bivariate analysis showed a smaller NIPS score in the group that received sucrose. Linear regression model explained that the significant variables for pain during the procedure were: hours since birth and the absence of non-nutritious suction, not being related to the sucrose administration.

Conclusion: Neonates that received the oral solution of sucrose before venipuncture had an average pain score lower than the placebo controlled group.