Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Interventions in Management of Venipuncture Pain.

A thick layer of cream (lidocaine and propiocaine 2.5%/2.5%) will be applied on a 1x1 cm2 area of skin on the cannulation site. The transparent dressing will be left in place for 30 minutes, then remove and clean with a sterile cotton swab. Then nurse perform IV cannulation for them.

Multiple distractions including toy whistles, cartoon books, a TV showing cartoons, and various electronic products with video games will be provided for the children to choose and play with. They will also be taught breathing exercises (i.e. inhaling through the nose for 3 seconds and exhaling for 5 seconds, while they are counting) if they are willing. A play therapist play with the children for 5 min. prior to and throughout the venipuncture procedure.

both EMLA cream and distraction techniques will be used. EMLA cream will be applied on the pre-puncture site for 30 minutes as the EMLA group, then 5 minutes before the venipuncture, the play therapist encourage them to choose their favorite toys to play with or to learn breathing exercises. During IV cannulation the play therapist will also continue distracting the child with toys.