Nonpharmacological Interventions for Pain Relief During Peripheral Venous Cannulation: Implications for Practice

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Clinical Procedures
• Patient Comfort

Background:

• Peripheral venous cannulation (PIVC) is a common procedure causing significant patient pain and anxiety.
• Non-pharmacological interventions offer a low-risk, low-cost alternative to pharmacological methods for pain management.
• This review synthesizes non-pharmacological strategies for pain reduction during PIVC in adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize non-pharmacological interventions for procedural pain reduction during PIVC in adults.
• To evaluate the efficacy of various techniques, from psychological distraction to advanced technologies.
• To identify feasible and effective methods for integration into clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following PRISMA 2020 and JBI framework.
• Searched databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus) for studies from 2015-2025.
• Included randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies on adult PIVC.

Main Results:

• Thirty studies analyzed, categorized into distraction, physical, and behavioral techniques.
• VR, music therapy, thermomechanical stimulation (Buzzy device), and vibration significantly reduced pain and improved satisfaction.
• Behavioral techniques (cough trick, diaphragmatic breathing) effectively reduced pain and anxiety; NIR vein visualization improved success rates.

Conclusions:

• Non-pharmacological interventions are effective, safe, and feasible adjuncts for PIVC pain management.
• The 'cough trick' and vibration devices are recommended for ease of integration into nursing practice.
• These methods can improve patient comfort and clinical outcomes during PIVC procedures.