Children's experiences of intravenous injection using the draw, write, and tell method: A mixed-methods study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• Child Psychology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Intravenous (IV) injections are common procedures in pediatric healthcare.
• Understanding children's experiences of pain and fear during IV injections is essential for effective care.
• Current strategies may not fully address the multifaceted needs of children undergoing IV procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore children's perceptions and experiences of receiving IV injections.
• To identify self-reported pain scores and effective management strategies.
• To enhance support for children during IV injections.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study involving 17 children aged 4-11 years.
• Data collection using the Draw, Write, and Tell (DWT) method and Facial Pain Rating Scale.
• Descriptive statistics and content analysis of qualitative data.

Main Results:

• Children reported a mean pain score of 4.82, indicating moderate pain, with sensations of pain, tingling, or stinging.
• Fear of needles, in addition to pain, was identified through children's drawings and narratives.
• Key themes included physical/emotional experiences, the role of parents as a secure base, and comfort/relief strategies.

Conclusions:

• Children effectively communicated their experiences and suggested comfort strategies through visual and verbal methods.
• Parents are vital in alleviating pain, anxiety, and distress during IV procedures.
• Arts-based, child-centered approaches like DWT are valuable for understanding children's experiences; family-centered care enhances comfort during IV injections.