Neonatal Pain: Perceptions and Current Practice.

Neonates may experience more than 300 painful procedures throughout their hospitalizations. Prior to 1980, there was a longstanding misconception that neonates do not experience pain. Current studies demonstrate that not only do neonates experience pain but also, due to their immature nervous systems, they are hypersensitive to painful stimuli. Poorly treated pain may lead to negative long-term consequences. Proper assessment of neonate pain is vital. The use of nonpharmacologic treatments may be beneficial in alleviating neonate pain. Pharmacologic treatments in the neonate have been well established. Pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions can be used in conjunction to increase the efficacy of analgesia.