Effect of Buzzy and Watching Cartoons on Venipuncture Pain among Children Undergoing Phlebotomy

Abstract

Background: Phlebotomy is among the most traumatic and uncomfortable procedures for children and their families in the emergency department. Buzzy and watching cartoons are effective and inexpensive non pharmacological pain management. Aim: To evaluate the effect of buzzy and watching cartoon on venipuncture pain among children undergoing phlebotomy. Research design: Quasi-experimental research design was used in current study. Sample: A purposive sample of 150 school-age children undergoing phlebotomy. Setting: Pediatric emergency units at Minia University Hospital for Obstetrics and Pediatrics Tools: Tool one: Structured interview form developed by researcher Tool two: Wong Faces Pain Rating Scale. Results: Mean scores of the Wong-BakerFacial Pain Rating Scale were significantly decreased in the buzzy group and the watching cartoons group than in the control group. Conclusion: It was concluded that buzzy and watching cartoons effectively diminish pain intensity at the venipuncture site among school children during Phlebotomy. The buzzy was more effective in reducing pain than watching cartoon. Recommendation: Pediatric health care units should integrate buzzy and watching cartoons to manage needle puncture pain in the routine care for children undergoing venipuncture procedures.