Bibliometric Analysis of Neonatal Pain Research over the Past 20 Years Based on CiteSpace

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the development status, research hotspots, and frontiers in the field of neonatal pain research in China over the past two decades. Methods: Literature on neonatal pain research, published from October 2001 to October 2021 in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, was selected for analysis. CiteSpace and Excel software were used to analyze annual publication volumes, journal, keywords, and research hotspots, and to generate visual maps. Results: A total of 677 articles were included. The overall annual publication volume showed an increasing trend, the journals publishing literature are mainly nursing journals. The main research hotspots included the assessment and management of procedural pain in neonates (such as intravenous puncture and heel prick), with non-nutritive sucking, touch therapy, and kangaroo care being key interventions. The current frontier of research is focused on pain response assessment in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), along with pain management measures such as music therapy and kangaroo care. Conclusion: Neonatal pain research in China has reached a mature stage. However, further attention should be given to neonatal pain, and efforts should be made to enhance training for healthcare professionals, as well as to innovate neonatal pain management theories and technologies to promote the development of neonatal pain research.