Learning Objective #1: Identify the role of various nonpharmacological relaxation techniques in the reduction of pain-distress during invasive procedures

Learning Objective #2: Identify the variables being studied and their level of significance pertaining to control vs research groups

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Bacground: the relief of pain-distress during invasive procedures is an important aspect of nursing care of pediatric patients. Several studies have shown that non-pharmacological adjuncts can be useful in the reduction of pain-distress ratings. The purpose of this study was to dtermine if two validated relaxation techniques, deep breathing and guided imagery, could significantly affect objective and subjective pain-distress measurements in children undergoing intravenous catheterization. Method: The sample consisted of 40 patients undergoing IV insertion. They were split into control and experimental group processes. The experimental group were taught two structured relaxation exercises, one using deep-breathing, and one using guided imagery. Pain-distress ratings using VAS and vital sign parameters were measured pre, during, and post insertion. Measurements were then compared to the group of 20 children that received the IV using a standard procedure and no relaxation. Results: There was a significant (p-.007) reduction in mean arterial pressure (MAP) during IV insertion in the experimental group. There were no significant differences in pain scores (VAS), heart rate or respiratory rate.