Newborn Pain and Skin Reaction according to the Method of Removing the Eyepatch Used for Phototherapy

Purpose: This study compared the pain and skin reactions of neonates according to the method of removing the adhesive eyepatch used for phototherapy. Methods: The subjects included 20 neonates admitted at C University Hospital. In group 1 (n=10), DuoDERM dressing was attached under the adhesive eyepatch, which was removed with water, while in group 2 (n=10), the eyepatch was attached on the skin and removed with oil. Heart rate, oxygen saturation, the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale (NIPS), crying time were measured. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results: No interaction was found between group and timing for heart rate and oxygen saturation. In group 1, the NIPS score was higher and the crying time was longer than in group 2. No difference was observed in the erythema score between the groups. Conclusion: Removing the adhesive eyepatch using oil can be used as a nursing intervention to reduce pain and improve comfort in neonates.