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Cryotherapy in Relieving Arteriovenous Fistula Cannulation-Related Pain: Non- Randomised Crossover Trail
P Aboushika1, S Monisha2, T Moses Lamech3
1Lecturer in RDT, Department of Nephrology, College of Allied Health Sciences, SRM Institute of science and Technology, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India 621105.
Cryotherapy significantly reduces pain during arteriovenous fistula (AVF) cannulation for hemodialysis patients. This intervention offers a simple yet effective method to improve patient comfort during AVF access.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pain Management
- Vascular Access
Background:
- Pain during arteriovenous fistula (AVF) cannulation is a significant issue for patients on maintenance hemodialysis.
- Effective pain management strategies are crucial for improving patient adherence and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of cryotherapy in alleviating pain experienced by hemodialysis patients during AVF cannulation.
Main Methods:
- A randomized crossover study involving 111 hemodialysis patients.
- Patients received cryotherapy for four sessions, followed by four sessions of standard care (control).
- Pain was quantified using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant reduction in perceived pain was observed when cryotherapy was applied (p=0.001).
- Cryotherapy demonstrated a clear benefit in reducing cannulation-related pain.
Conclusions:
- Cryotherapy is an effective intervention for reducing pain associated with arteriovenous fistula cannulation in hemodialysis patients.
- Implementing cryotherapy can enhance patient comfort and potentially improve the hemodialysis experience.
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