Improving the patient's experience of a bone marrow biopsy - an RCT

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Pain Management
• Hematology

Background:

• Bone marrow biopsies are common but often painful, despite local anesthetic (LA).
• Previous studies suggest N(2)O/O(2) is effective for pain management in other invasive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of nitrous oxide 50%/oxygen 50% (N(2)O/O(2)) plus LA versus placebo (oxygen) plus LA for bone marrow biopsy pain.

Main Methods:

• Double-blind randomized controlled trial involving 48 patients.
• Patients received either N(2)O/O(2) or oxygen alongside LA during their biopsy.
• Pain scores and patient experiences were recorded.

Main Results:

• N(2)O/O(2) significantly reduced pain in men but not women undergoing bone marrow biopsy.
• Patients with prior biopsies reported higher pain levels irrespective of the gas administered.
• No significant adverse effects were observed in either group.

Conclusions:

• N(2)O/O(2) is a safe, effective, and easy-to-use analgesic for bone marrow biopsies.
• Further research into N(2)O/O(2) for painful interventions is recommended.
• Nurses should consider patient individuality and proper administration techniques for optimal pain relief.