Effect of Eye Masks on Neonatal Stress Following Dilated Retinal Examination: The MASK-ROP Randomized Clinical Trial.

Importance: Although screening examinations for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) prevent blindness, they are physiologically stressful for infants. Photosensitivity during mydriasis may contribute to postexamination stress, and reducing light stimulation may make infants more comfortable.

Objective: To determine the effect of a phototherapy mask worn during mydriasis on infant stress in the 12-hour period following ROP screening.