Evaluation of breastfeeding and 30% glucose solution as analgesic measures in indigenous African term neonates

Abstract

Objectives: To compare the analgesic effect of breastfeeding and 30% glucose on pain induced in term newborns during a single painful procedure. Study Design and Setting: We conducted an open design trial, from January to October 2013, at the maternity of the Yaounde Gynaeco-Obstetric and Paediatric Hospital. Patients and Methods: We included healthy term newborns of at least 24 h of life; a heel prick was done, using a 23-gauge syringe, after an analgesic with breastfeeding or 30% glucose. The newborns were divided into two groups by drawing of lots. The pain was evaluated using the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale. Results: Fifty newborns were recruited per group. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) pain scores, during pricking, were 2 (1.5–3.5) and 3 (2.5–4.5), in the groups of breastfeeding and 30% glucose respectively, with a significant statistical difference ( P P = 0.02). Conclusion: The analgesic effect of breastfeeding is greater than that of 30% glucose solution, in newborns undergoing a single painful procedure. Term newborns weighing between 2500 and 3000 g express pain more than those weighing more than 3000 g.