Pain management for Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening focuses on pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions during the actual eye examination. Management of pain related to increased light sensitivity during the post-mydriasis period has not been described.
This prospective, randomized study evaluated the impact of protecting the eyes from ambient light exposure post mydriasis. Vital signs and pain scales were recorded in infants randomized to either wear or not wear eye patches after mydriasis for their ROP exam. Infants less than 30 weeks gestational age or less than 1500 grams at birth were included. Standard statistical methods were used to compare vital signs and pain scores for each group at baseline, 1 and 3 hours after mydriasis.
