Nurses’ attitudes to pain management during routine venepuncture in young children

Venepuncture is one of the most commonly performed clinical procedures carried out on young children. Evidence indicates inconsistency in the use of pain management strategies during these procedures. A survey method was used to explore nurses' views on the experience of pain by infants and toddlers and the pain management techniques they use. All children's nurses on the general medical and surgical wards at one hospital site were invited to participate (n=55); 45 responses were receive (81 per cent). These children's nurses believe that infants and toddlers feel more pain and display more distress than older children. Respondents reported that pharmacological preparations were not generally used on infants prior to venous cannulation; distraction and parental presence during these procedures were highlighted. Nurses should ensure infants and toddlers receive appropriate pain management prior to and during venepuncture and venous cannulation.