Pain assessment and management practices in Hungarian neonatal intensive care units: a nationwide survey
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By
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Johanna Ivancsó
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Gyula Tálosi
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June 24, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Evaluation and Treatment of Pain in Hungarian Neonatal Intensive Care Units: Results from a Nationwide Survey
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Neonatal Pain Management |
| Key Mechanisms | Assessment and management of pain in neonates during hospitalization in NICUs. |
| Target Population | Neonates in Hungarian level III NICUs. |
| Care Setting | Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) |
Key Highlights
- Only 14% of NICUs reported using comprehensive pain management guidelines.
- Validated neonatal pain assessment scales were used in only 14% of NICUs.
- Non-pharmacological methods like sucrose and pacifier use were common.
- Postoperative analgesia was routinely administered in all surgical NICUs.
- Routine analgesia during mechanical ventilation was used in 86% of units.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Use validated neonatal pain assessment tools.
Management
- Implement comprehensive written pain management guidelines.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regularly evaluate pain management practices and adherence.
Risks
- Untreated neonatal pain may adversely affect neurodevelopment and long-term health outcomes.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Neonates undergoing painful procedures in NICUs.
Paracetamol and fentanyl were the most frequently prescribed medications.
Clinical Best Practices
- Adopt standardized guidelines for neonatal pain management.
- Utilize both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
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