Abstract

Pain management in preterm infants during eye examinations

Author(s): Ozlem Metres

Statement of the Problem: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is often seen ın preterm infants. There are many factors in the development of the disease, especially prematurıty and low birth weight and ıt characterized to the incomplete vascular development and abnormal vascularization of the retina. Retinopathy screening is often carried out using the binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy method, which is a painful procedure for the preterm infant. The use of an eyelid speculum, scleral depression, application of pressure on the globe and traction of extraocular muscles increases the intensity of the pain felt by preterm infants during screening examinations.