This study aims to investigate the knowledge and therapeutic approaches of the physiotherapy team in addressing neonatal pain.
This was an exploratory, quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study involving physiotherapists working in the Neonatal Units of Hospital Geral Dr. César Cals (HGCC) in Fortaleza, Ceará, conducted from May to July 2024. The study was approved by the research ethics committee of the hospital (Opinion number 6,779,662). Data was collected using a questionnaire with 15 objective and open-ended questions, covering sociodemographic information, knowledge of neonatal pain, pain assessment scales, and pain management therapies
Thirty-three physiotherapists participated, with only one male. Most participants were aged between 24 and 30, and nearly half (45.5%) had completed their residency in neonatology. 36.4% recognized pain as the fifth vital sign. Almost all participants reported assessing pain in their routine care, with the Newborn Pain Assessment Scale (NIPS) being the most commonly used scale. Various therapies such as non-nutritive sucking, sensory stimulation, kangaroo position, therapeutic positioning, massage, swaddling, breastfeeding, and facilitated containment were cited as effective in managing neonatal pain. 43.5% identified clinical instability as a contraindication for using pain therapies, and all professionals acknowledged the relevance of using a protocol for managing neonatal pain
The participating physiotherapists evaluate pain as part of routine care, albeit in a more subjective manner without the use of specific scales for recording. They also recognize the importance of establishing protocols to aid in managing neonatal pain
This study is expected to prompt the physiotherapy team to rethink their approach to pain in routine newborn care and provide theoretical and practical support for implementing specific routines and protocols to enhance care for this patient group.
Pain
Physiotherapy
