Thermoelectric tourniquet–assisted thermotherapy and cryotherapy for pain, regional blood flow, and satisfaction with intravenous injections among hospitalized patients in Korea: a randomized controlled trial
- Author:
Seon-Mi LEE
1
;
Myung-Haeng HUR
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science 2024;26(4):323-336
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Intravenous injections are a common invasive procedure for delivering fluids or medications. Although patients experience pain from needle insertion, this discomfort is often overlooked due to its short duration and perceived insignificance. This study aimed to assess the effect of applying cryotherapy and thermotherapy using a flexible thermoelectric device on relieving the pain caused by intravenous injections.
Methods:This randomized controlled trial utilized the modified thermoelectric element (M-TEE) tourniquet, which improves heat and cold transfer through a flexible TEE. Participants were hospitalized adults who had an 18-gauge angiocatheter inserted for surgery. The M-TEE tourniquet was applied 10-12 cm above the injection site, providing thermotherapy (40°C-45°C) or cryotherapy (0°C-10°C) to the respective groups. The control group received no temperature treatment. Pain, peripheral oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and regional blood flow were measured. Post-injection, satisfaction surveys were conducted with participants and practitioners.
Results:There was a significant difference in pain perception among the three groups (F = 3.38, p = .041), with the cryotherapy group reporting less pain than the control group (p = .036). Regional venous blood flow significantly increased during thermotherapy (F = 5.99, p = .004), although regional arterial flow remained unchanged. Participant satisfaction differed across groups (F = 3.26, p = .046), with higher satisfaction in the cryotherapy group than in the control group (p = .040). Nurses’ satisfaction also varied significantly (F = 24.14, p < .001) across the groups.
Conclusion:The M-TEE tourniquet effectively reduces intravenous injection pain and increases patient and practitioner satisfaction, particularly with cryotherapy.
