Effects of EMLA Cream to Decrease Venipuncture Related Pain and Anxiety in Children

Chung, Young Sun; Park, Ki Won; Kim, Jin Sun

Abstract

PURPOSES: Venipuncture is one of the most painful and frequently performed invasive procedures for children done by nurses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of EMLA cream (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics: 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine) to decrease venipuncture related pain and anxiety in children.
METHODS
A randomized, double blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted. Sixty children scheduled for venipuncture were recruited, and randomly assigned to receive either EMLA or a placebo cream 1 hour before the venipuncture. Venipuncture was carried out by one of the nurse investigators. Pain and anxiety were measured by the parent, nurse investigator, and nurse observer.
RESULTS
Pain in the EMLA group was significantly lower than that of the placebo group. However, there was no significant difference in anxiety score between the EMLA and placebo groups. Local side effects of EMLA cream were negligible.
CONCLUSIONS
EMLA cream was found to be an effective local anesthetic for pediatric venipuncture pain. Further studies should continue to evaluate the facilitators and barriers of EMLA cream application in pediatric nursing practice.