The Effect of 3 Methods (Buzzy, ShotBlocker, and DistrACTION Cards) Used While Taking Blood Samples From Children with Pain and Anxiety: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of 3 methods (Buzzy, ShotBlocker, and DistrACTION Cards) in reducing pain and anxiety while taking venous blood samples in children.

Methods: The study population consisted of children aged 9 to 12 years admitted to the Child Health and Diseases Department in a Faculty of Medicine in Turkey. The sample of the study consisted of 242 children (Buzzy = 60, ShotBlocker = 61, DistrACTION Cards = 60, control = 61) who met the patient selection criteria and agreed to participate in the study. The data were obtained using an Information Form, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children, visual analog scale, and the Faces Pain Scale-Revised.

Design: This article is an experimental randomized controlled study.

Results: During venous blood collection, the scores of visual analog scale were significantly lower in ShotBlocker, Buzzy, and DistrACTION Cards groups than the control group. It was also observed that the control group experienced more anxiety than the other groups.

Conclusions: Methods such as Buzzy, ShotBlocker, and DistrACTION Cards can be used to reduce the anxiety and pain of children during painful procedures such as blood collection and vascular access. Among these methods, "Buzzy" and "DistrACTION Cards" can be preferred as it is equally effective, and then ShotBlocker can be preferred.