Audiovisual distraction reduces pain perception during aural microsuction

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Pain Management
• Patient Experience

Background:

• Aural microsuction is a common outpatient procedure in ear, nose, and throat care.
• Some patients experience discomfort, pain, or noise during aural microsuction, impacting tolerance.
• This study investigated audiovisual distraction's effect on pain perception and satisfaction during the procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of audiovisual distraction on pain perception during aural microsuction.
• To assess patient satisfaction and preference for audiovisual distraction during the procedure.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involved 37 patients undergoing bilateral mastoid cavity toileting via aural microsuction.
• Patients viewed the procedure on a screen for one ear and did not view for the other, with consistent real-time explanations.
• Pain perception was measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS), and patient preference was recorded.

Main Results:

• Patients viewing the procedure had a mean VAS pain score of 2.43, compared to 3.48 for those not viewing (p=0.003).
• Audiovisual distraction resulted in a statistically significant reduction in perceived pain.
• A majority of patients (65%) preferred viewing the procedure.

Conclusions:

• Audiovisual distraction effectively lowers visual analogue scale pain scores during aural microsuction.
• This simple intervention can improve patient acceptance and reduce perceived pain during ear care procedures.