“Post code ouch”: A survey of neonatal pain management prior to painful procedures within the United Kingdom

A postal survey was carried out to identify current practice in 238 neonatal units of varying size within the United Kingdom (UK) regarding pain management prior to invasive procedures in 2001. Data from 92% of neonatal units (NNU) was obtained, 54.7% of NNUs do not have a protocol for pain relief in place. Only 45% units administer analgesia prior to chest drain insertion, 55% perform lumbar punctures without analgesia, 75-80% of units do not administer analgesia prior to cannulation, heel pricks or venepuncture even though there is evidence to suggest that sucrose is very effective for simple pain relief. Twenty percent of respondents still believe analgesia is not necessary prior to chest drain insertion, elective endotracheal intubation, or lumbar puncture. The results obtained highlight the varying standards and practices regarding pain management of neonates within the UK. It would appear that pain relief is still viewed by many as an optional rather than an essential part of a neonate's care.