Cryoanalgesia for Arterial Puncture Pain

"On the first day of the study, the PI met the participants and assessed their level of consciousness using the Modified Glasgow Coma Scale to ensure that they were unconscious and reviewed the medical records to collect their sociodemographic data. After that, the participants received routine care before the arterial puncture. The PI assessed their pain scores during the puncture.~In the second meeting (on the same day or the following day), the PI prepared the ice packs by crushing small pieces of ice and wrapping them in smooth gauze to avoid skin damage and moisture in the puncture area. Before the arterial puncture, the ice pack was applied over the selected puncture site (radial, brachial, or femoral artery) for 5 minutes in addition to the routine care. After removing the ice pack, the nurse palpated the artery, wiped of the residue of ice vapor present on the skin, and took the arterial blood sample. During the puncture, the PI assessed the participants' pain scores."