Purpose: To review the literature on neonatal pain management with a focus on historical misconceptions, ethical issues, barriers to practice, the role of the advanced practice nurse (APN), and suggested improvements.
Data sources: Selected research and review articles in nursing and medical literature.
Conclusions: Health care professionals agree that neonates experience pain and in turn deserve effective treatment. Research is controversial regarding the extent of pain management necessary in relation to short-term benefits and long-term consequences. Ethical issues arise when research supporting pain management is not consistently utilized in nursing practice.
Implications for practice: Protocols and standardized pain management strategies have demonstrated a beneficial effect on overall patient outcomes. The APN is identified as being in the optimal position to facilitate enhanced neonatal pain management through research, education, and direct clinical care.