Pain as a vital sign in neonatal care: The experience with the Neonatal Infant Pain Scales (NIPS) in a high-risk public maternity hospital
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i1.50543Keywords:
Pain measurement, Neonatal nursing, Newborn, Vital signs.Abstract
Objective of the article: This article aims to report the experience of neonatal nursing residents regarding the management of the fifth vital sign, with emphasis on the use of the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS), analyzing the importance of systematic pain assessment, the main barriers to its implementation, and strategies to improve this practice in the neonatal hospital setting. Methodology: This is an experience report, based on critical and systematized reflection on the practical experiences of nursing residents in a Neonatal Unit of a high-risk public maternity hospital located in the Northeast region of Brazil. The observation period took place between February and June 2025, using participant observation of care routines and document analysis of newborn medical records, focusing on the frequency, completeness, and consistency of NIPS scale records. The analyses were discussed collectively in tutoring sessions. Results: Low adherence to the systematic application of NIPS was evident, with predominantly reactive use, incomplete or mechanical records, and frequent absence of non-pharmacological interventions and post-intervention reassessment. Adherence was higher in the NICU, although still with weaknesses. Conclusion: It is concluded that, despite the recognition of NIPS, its effective incorporation as the fifth vital sign remains limited. It is essential to invest in continuing education, active supervision, and institutionalization of protocols to strengthen pain management and promote humanized and safe neonatal care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Bárbara Giovanna de Araújo Santos, Evelyn Rayane Costa de Andrade, Lays Gabrielle Rocha Silva dos Anjos, Jayane Omena de Oliveira, Paulyne Souza Silva Guimarães, Silvana Maria Barros de Oliveira, Marta Maria de Souza Moura Queiroz
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