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Cold and Vibration for Pain Relief During Pediatric Venipuncture: A Quasi-Randomized Trial
Cânia Patrícia Martins Basto Torres1, Sofia Tedim2, Nazaré Rajão2
1Nursing School, RISE-Health, University of Porto (ESEP), Porto, Portugal.
Background:
Pain from invasive procedures is common in hospitalized children and is associated with fear and anxiety. Nonpharmacological interventions, such as devices combining cold and vibration (DCV) are widely recommended in pediatric nursing because they are safe, low-cost, and help children feel more comfortable and engaged during procedures.
Purpose:
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a DCV for reducing pain during venipuncture in hospitalized children and to assess parental satisfaction.
Methods:
A quasi-randomized controlled trial was conducted with 120 children aged 1-17 years admitted to a pediatric inpatient unit. Participants were allocated to an experimental group using the DCV during venipuncture or to a control group receiving standard care. Pain intensity was measured immediately before and immediately after venipuncture using age-appropriate validated scales. Parental satisfaction and adverse events were also recorded.
Results:
Pain scores were similar between groups before venipuncture (Mann-Whitney U = 1771.5, p = .988; rank-biserial r = -0.001) and after venipuncture (U = 1799.5, p = .870; rank-biserial r = -.017). Pain increased significantly after venipuncture in both groups (Wilcoxon: control W = 696.5, p < .001; experimental W = 874.5, p < .001). No clinically significant adverse events occurred; two children in the experimental group reported mild cold-related discomfort. Parental satisfaction was high in both groups (p = .470).
Conclusion:
The DCV was safe, feasible, and well accepted in pediatric nursing practice. Although it did not significantly reduce pain scores during venipuncture, its safety profile and parental acceptance suggest that it may be used as a complementary comfort strategy rather than as a stand-alone analgesic intervention.
Clinical Implications:
The DCV was safe, feasible, and well accepted, but did not demonstrate superior pain reduction compared with standard care. Further research is needed before its routine use for pain reduction during pediatric venipuncture can be recommended.
