NEONATAL PAIN MANAGEMENT IN A MATERNITY HOSPITAL OF USUAL RISK: PERSPECTIVES OF HEALTH TEAM LEADING PROFESSIONALS

Abstract

Objective: to identify the management of neonatal pain from the perspective of health team leading professionals in a maternity hospital of usual risk. Method: qualitative study conducted between September and December 2016 with eight leading professionals of the health team of a maternity hospital in the interior of São Paulo, three nurses, two pediatric physicians, a Nursing technician, a Nursing assistant and a Laboratory technician. Data collection occurred through semi-structured interviews, whose statements were recorded, transcribed and submitted to content analysis, in the thematic modality. Results: verbalizations showed that the evaluation of neonatal pain was performed subjectively, based on aspects observed by the team, such as face alterations, vital signs, movements and crying. There were reports of difficulties in assessing neonatal pain and divergences regarding the time indicated for evaluation. Non-pharmacological methods were cited as strategies that facilitate the management of neonatal pain. However, although the statements were favorable to use them, the knowledge about those techniques was superficial, since speeches included "I don't know" and "I've never read anything about it", and it was evident the difficulty of applying them. The scores included the need for frequent training/qualification regarding the evaluation and treatment of neonatal pain, as well as to implement protocols, use scales and sensitize the health team. Conclusion: superficial knowledge of the leading professionals of the health team regarding the evaluation and non-pharmacological management of neonatal pain was evidenced, in addition to the absence of formal protocols and training.