Comparison of different methods for reducing pain during a heel lance in newborns: a randomized trial.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to compare three different methods [breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact (SSC), swaddling + holding] to reduce the pain felt by term newborns during a heel lance (HL).

Methods: This was a randomized three-group experimental study. The study sample included 90 newborns, 30 in each group. The data were collected using a pulse oximeter, a voice recorder, an Information Form, the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS). The newborns' pain level, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were measured at three different times.

Results: No difference was found between the groups' mean NIPS scores before the HL procedure (p > 0.05). The mean NIPS scores 10 s after the procedure started and after the HL procedure were the lowest in the breastfeeding group, followed by the SSC and swaddling + holding groups (p < 0.05). There was no difference between the groups' mean heart rates before the procedure; however, there was a significant difference 10 s after the procedure started and after the procedure (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Breastfeeding is the most effective method to reduce pain during and after HL procedures in term newborns, followed by SSC and swaddling + holding.

Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT05797532 (date: 04.04.2023).