Effect of cold needle application on the arteriovenous fistula cannulation-related pain: a self-controlled, double-blind study.

Abstract

Background: Cold application is a non-pharmaceutical method that has been shown to be effective in relieving pain by slowing down or blocking the conduction of peripheral nerves.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cold needle use during arteriovenous fistula cannulation on cannulation-related invasive pain.

Methods: A semi-experimental, self-controlled, and double-blind study was used. The cannulation procedure was performed with room temperature needles during the first three haemodialysis sessions and with cold needles during the next three sessions. Patients were those treated in the haemodialysis unit with arteriovenous fistula of a state hospital in Turkey between April and May 2024.

Results: The study was completed with a total of 33 patients. The mean pain score of the three sessions was found to be statistically significantly lower when a cold needle was used (5.08 ± 0.67) compared to the use of a room temperature needle (6.68 ± 0.68; 1.78 ± 0.94; 95%CI: 1.45-2.12; p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Cold needle use is recommended during arteriovenous fistula cannulation to reduce invasive pain. Cannulation with cold needle is a non-pharmacological, easy to apply, and cost-effective method. These findings have potential for informing policy and procedure in effective pain management.