Better IV Insertion Device

Researchers invented a vibrating device, used with a cold pack, which relieves a child's pain while emergency department caregivers insert an intravenous (IV) catheter, equally as well as the currently used anesthetic, topical lidocaine.

Better IV insertion device. Image credit: tasnimnews.com (CC BY 4.0)

Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) who conducted the study recommend follow-up investigations to further evaluate the device.

"This is the first study to compare a vibrating cold device to topical lidocaine in reducing the pain and distress experienced by children during IV insertion," said study leader Debra A. Potts.

"This is important because hospitalized children experience IV insertion as a very painful and stressful event, and they can have post-traumatic stress symptoms if their pain is not adequately controlled."

Based on the children's self-reports of pain and anxiety, there were no significant differences between the vibrating cold device (VCD) group and the lidocaine group.

Caregivers and nurses also expressed high levels of satisfaction with both methods of pain control during IV insertion.

Potts added that the shorter time of onset for the VCD compared to that of lidocaine could be a distinct advantage in a busy emergency department setting. (Tasnim News Agency)

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