Helping to alleviate pain for children having venepuncture

Abstract

This article reviews the literature on venepuncture and children. The evidence on the use of topical agents namely tetracaine (amethocaine) gel and lidocaine/prilocaine cream is discussed, along with the use and benefits of distraction techniques and parental presence to make this an easier procedure for the child, their families and the nurse.

Delusions of Vampirism in an Adolescent and Treatment With Clozapine: A Case Report

“…Clozapine is utilized for the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia but is rarely utilized in children and adolescents, particularly as it is only licensed for use in patients aged 16 years and over [ 14 ], rendering its use in younger children unlicensed. Other potential reasons for clozapine’s limited utilization may relate to the low incidence of schizophrenia in younger adolescents, serious adverse effects such as neutropenia (albeit rare), and the requirement for frequent venepuncture (at least weekly for 18 weeks) [ 15 ]. Additionally, current evidence suggests that children are potentially more likely to be more sensitive to the neutropenic effects of clozapine, particularly if they are of male gender [ 16 ].…”

Parent–healthcare provider interaction during peripheral vein cannulation with resistive preschool children

“…Runeson et al (2002) concluded that parents did not necessarily take their child's side to protect them when the child experienced distress, neither did they demand a new approach during unpleasant procedures. Although there are mixed results regarding the effect of parental presence on children, it seems to comfort the child (Piira et al 2005, Gilboy & Hollywood 2009.…”

Making the Invisible Visible: Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Phlebotomy in Children

“…They include topical anesthetic creams, cooling sprays, and active and passive distraction. [4][5][6] Ultrasonography has been utilized to reduce failure and complication rates in pediatric central venous catheter placement, but its effectiveness has been questioned. 7 Zeman et al 8 have developed a nearinfrared imaging system that enhances the visual contrast of peripheral veins, thus facilitating venous access.…”