The effect of combined stimulation of external cold and vibration during immunization on pain and anxiety levels in children

Abstract

Purpose: Procedures involving needles are the most common and major sources of pain in children. External cold and vibration via Buzzy (MMJ Labs, Atlanta, GA) is a method that combines cooling and vibration.

Design: This study investigated the effect of the combined stimulation of skin with external cold and vibration via Buzzy on the pain and anxiety levels in children during immunization.

Methods: This study was a prospective, randomized controlled trial. Children were randomized into two groups: experimental (external cold and Buzzy) and control (no intervention). The pain and anxiety levels of the children were assessed using the Wong-Baker FACES scale and Children Fear Scale.

Finding: The experimental group showed significantly lower pain and anxiety levels than the control group during immunization.

Conclusions/implications for practice: The combined stimulation of skin with external cold and vibration can be used to reduce pain and anxiety during pediatric immunization.

Keywords: Buzzy; external cold and vibration; pediatric immunization; pediatric nursing; procedural pain and anxiety.