1365-2214/asset/cch_left.jpg?v=1&s=82bcd067accd359c4b0ce5e8aab25d3f1db5a6b0)
Pain- and distress-reducing interventions for venepuncture in children
Article first published online: 29 MAR 2006
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2006.00578.x
Additional Information
How to Cite
Tak, J. H. and Van Bon, W. H. J. (2006), Pain- and distress-reducing interventions for venepuncture in children. Child: Care, Health and Development, 32: 257–268. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2214.2006.00578.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 29 MAR 2006
- Article first published online: 29 MAR 2006
- Accepted for publication 20 July 2005
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Keywords:
- distraction;
- distress;
- EMLA cream;
- pain;
- procedural information;
- venepuncture
Abstract
Objective To compare the effect of eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics (EMLA) and a placebo cream on reported pain and observed distress associated with venepuncture, and to investigate effects of procedural information before and distraction during venepuncture.
Methods Children 3–12 years of age undergoing venepuncture under five experimental and a control condition reported their pain at venepuncture on visual scales. Distress was observed when the child entered the waiting room, just before, and during venepuncture.
Results Distress increased over the measurement occasions, but a distress-reducing effect of EMLA only was found at the actual venepuncture. The placebo diminished the reported pain, but the effect of EMLA was larger. Procedural information and distraction showed no effects.
Conclusions EMLA reduces pain from venepuncture. The placebo effect probably results from desirable responding. Behavioural distress is a more direct measure than self-reported pain. More sophisticated designs should be used for the provision of procedural information and distraction.