Distraction Using the BUZZY for Children During an IV Insertion.

Unlabelled: Needle pricks are rated by children as their most feared medical event resulting in acute pain, anxiety and distress, which negatively affects both the child and his/her parents.

Objectives: To investigate the effects of external cold and vibration via the "BUZZY" on pain ratings of children, their parents and nurses during peripheral IV insertion, to measure the time to a successful IV insertion and to assess the factors that are associated with pain perception of children.

Methods: In this randomized control trial (RCT), children between the ages of 4 to 12years were assigned to either an intervention or a control group. The intervention group (n=25) had the "BUZZY" applied during IV insertion while the control group (n=23) did not have the "BUZZY". Children were asked to rate their pain along with their parents and nurses on the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale. Time to successful IV insertion and background characteristic of children were assessed and compared.

Results: Pain scores were significantly lower in the "BUZZY" group for children and the nurses. Time to a successful IV insertion did not differ between groups. Gender, age, previous hospitalization, diagnoses and analgesics were all factors associated with the children's pain scores. However, a multiple regression analysis found that only the "BUZZY" remained a significant predictor of pain scores in children.

Clinical Implications: The "BUZZY" may be an easily accessed, inexpensive ($39.95 each at $0.09 per 3 minute stick), and effective technique to control or reduce pain in young children undergoing IV insertion.