The Effect of Vibration on Pain During Heel Lance Procedures in Newborns: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background/significance: The pain-reducing effect of applying vibration, which is used as a nonpharmacological method in pain management, is explained by the gate control theory developed by Melzack and Wall. Studies that are based on this theory have shown similar results to those of Melzack and Wall, indicating that pain-transmitting nerves are suppressed by vibrations, leading to higher pain thresholds.

Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the effect of applying vibration to manage pain during heel lance procedures in newborns.

Methods: This is a randomized, controlled experimental study. The study sample included 56 newborns determined using power analysis (vibration group = 28; control group = 28). For those in the vibration group, a vibrating device was used for approximately 30 seconds before the heel lance procedure and then continued throughout the procedure. No interventions were provided to the newborns in the control group. Pain in the newborns was evaluated by the nurse who performed the heel lance procedures, before the procedures and 15 to 20 seconds and 5 minutes after procedures, and by 2 specialists who viewed the video footage and conducted the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale examination.

Results: The pain scores were significantly lower at 15 to 20 seconds and 5 minutes after the heel lance procedures in the group that received vibrations than in the control group (P < .05).

Implications for practice: The application of vibration, which is effective, nonpharmacological, and noninvasive, could help nurses manage pain in newborns as a nonpharmacological method.

Implications for research: The number of studies that examine the effect that vibration has on pain associated with heel lance procedures in newborns is very limited, and it is recommended that further studies be conducted with larger sample sizes.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04674982.