Effectiveness of Video-Assisted Distraction Technique in Reduction of Pain Among Preschool Children Undergoing Vein Puncture

Introduction: Vein puncture is an invasive but common procedure for children, often accompanied by pain, fear and anxiety and refuse to cooperate. Distraction technique is one of the non-pharmacological methods of controlling pain. The objective of this study was to find the effectiveness of video assisted distraction technique in reduction of pain among preschooler children. Methods: Quasi experimental study was conducted in Bharatpur Hospital, Chitwan, Nepal. 108 preschooler children consisting of 54 children in each experimental and control group selected by non-probability purposive sampling technique were enrolled in the study. Structured pain scale was used to collect data in both groups. Animated cartoon video was shown only to experimental group five minutes prior to until the vein puncture was over. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests. Results: In experimental group, 59.2% had moderate pain whereas 68.5% in control group had severe pain. The pain score of experimental group was significantly lower than that of control group at p = 0.05 with the mean value of experimental and control group 6.85 ± 0.79 and 7.25 ± 0.87 respectively. Conclusions: Distraction is an effective technique for children undergoing vein puncture in order to alleviate pain level during vein puncture