Effects Of Three Different Methods Used During Heel Lance Procedures On Pain Level In Term Neonates

Aim This study aims to experimentally determine effects of three different methods (swaddling; swaddling and holding; swaddling, holding and breastfeeding) used during heel lancing on pain levels in healthy term neonates.Methods This study was a prospective, randomized controlled trial. The sample of newborns (n = 160) were allocated to the groups (group 1, control; group 2, swaddling; group 3, swaddling and holding; group 4, swaddling, holding and breastfeeding) by blocked randomization. The study data were obtained using an information form, and the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS).Results The procedural pain scores of group 4 were lower than group 1, group 2 and group 3. Both the total crying time and the first calming time of the groups swaddling, holding and breastfeeding, were shorter than the swaddling, swaddling and holding and the control group.Conclusions As a result, all the three methods are effective in reducing the pain felt during heel lancing in the newborn. However, swaddling, holding and breastfeeding is more effective than the other methods.