The nurse is preparing to perform a heel stick on a neonate. Which complementary therapy is appropriate for the nurse to use decrease pain during this quick but painful procedure?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sucrose has been shown to have analgesic effects in neonates by increasing the release of endogenous opioids and decreasing cortisol levels. Swaddling, massage, and holding the infant may also provide comfort and security, but sucrose has the most evidence to support its efficacy in reducing pain during procedures such as heel sticks.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Perform a Heel Stick on a Neonate