A comparative study to assess the efficacy of topical application of 2% lignocaine gel and emla cream on pain levels during venepuncture in school-age children in a tertiary care hospital

Author Name: Lt Col Jisha Johnson1, Lt Col Ritu Samuel 2, Brig Amita Devrani3

Volume: 03/01

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/05.2025-96199943/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Final Msc Nursing, Child Health Nursing, College of Nursing, AFMC, Pune, Maharashtra, India
2. Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, AFMC, Pune, Maharashtra, India
3. Professor And Principal, College of Nursing, AFMC, Pune, Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Simple venous access procedures are a major source of pain and distress for children receiving medical care. When pediatric pain is inadequately managed, it can result in both physical and psychological consequences. This study was conducted to evaluate whether 2% lignocaine gel is as effective as emla cream—a proven strategy—in reducing pain during venepuncture in children. Methods & materials: a true experimental design was adopted for the study. A total of 60 children aged 6–9 years were randomly selected using a random number table. Participants were allocated into two groups: the experimental group received 2% lignocaine gel, and the control group received emla cream, using a lottery method. Triple blinding was employed to eliminate outcome bias. Pain levels were assessed using the wong-baker FACES Pain rating scale within one minute of the procedure. Results: the subjects in both groups were homogeneous with respect to selected sociodemographic variables. There was no statistically significant difference in mean pain scores between the experimental group (2.67 ± 1.688) and the control group (2.73 ± 1.688) at the 5% level of significance. Discussion:A study conducted by bahorski et al. (2015), which compared the effectiveness of lignocaine, distraction, and the buzzy device during venepuncture in children aged 18 months to 17 years, found that both mechanical vibration and topical anesthetics were equally effective, regardless of age or sex. These findings support the results of the present study. Conclusion:The study concludes that 2% lignocaine gel is as effective as emla cream in reducing pain during venepuncture in children.

Key words: Pain, children, venepuncture, wong-baker faces pain rating scale