Effectiveness of Virgin Coconut Oil Application in Non-Therapeutic Pain Management of Infants by Using NPASS Pain Score as Parameter: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Background: There has been greater emphasis in recent years on the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in soothing infants and reducing pain perception in preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). While approaches ranging from swaddling, breastfeeding, to sensory stimulation have encountered limitations in their effectiveness and practical application across different settings; Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) has concurrently emerged as a potential non-therapeutic remedy for pain management in infants, thanks to its unique composition. Researchers are investigating its safety and effectiveness as an alternative pain management option for neonates. To answer the following questions: (i) can virgin coconut oil effectively help improve skin dryness and irritation in infants? and (ii) how does the effectiveness of virgin coconut oil compare to standard care in neonatal pain management? Methods: A search of the existing literature was done on online databases using keywords to narrow down the articles. Results: Based on the selection criteria, 24 articles were selected to be included in this paper. Three main points can be observed that is on: (i) the properties of VCO in skin barrier function and preventing infection; (ii) recommendations for the use of VCO in infant skin care; and (iii) in pain management of neonates. Conclusion: There is a gap in the literature for how the pain management of infants and the success of VCO in managing skin conditions in neonates can be further studied to develop standards in managing non-therapeutic pain among infants.