Local anesthesia prior to the insertion of peripherally inserted central catheters

Using a randomized, controlled study, the investigators evaluated and compared the effects of local anesthesia versus no anesthesia on pain associated with peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) insertion. A sample of 42 subjects was selected and divided into three groups. Group 1 received EMLA cream. Group 2 received buffered lidocaine. Group 3 (the control group) did not receive a local anesthetic. The short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire was used to measure pain quality and intensity. A numerical Visual Analogue Scale accompanied the questionnaire and measured overall pain intensity. Results showed that buffered lidocaine was statistically superior to EMLA cream or no anesthetic in relieving pain associated with PICC insertion.