Introduction: The purpose of this study was to assess differences in observed pain-related behaviors during cannulation between a device combining cold and vibration (Buzzy) and the standard care (EMLA patch).
Methods: Patients 18 months to 6 years old, requiring venous access in a pediatric emergency department, received either the Buzzy device or the EMLA patch. Predefined week randomization ensured equal allocation to the 2 intervention groups. Pain during cannulation was measured using the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale. Parent and nurse reports, cannulation success, and venous access times were also assessed.
Results: In total, 607 included patients were randomized into the Buzzy group (n = 302) or the EMLA group (n = 305). Observed pain-related behaviors scores, parent-assessed pain scores, and nurse-reported pain ratings were higher with Buzzy.
Conclusions: Pain relief by a combination of cold and vibration during cannulation is not as effective as the standard-care method in children 18 months to 6 years old.
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