Controllo del dolore da venipuntura e accesso venoso periferico: tecniche farmacologiche e non

Venipuncture and peripheral intravenous access are the painful procedures more com- monly performed in children. The aim of this article is to present the techniques availa- ble and more commonly employed to decrease pain and distress during these procedures. Evidence shows that pharmacological techniques, such as the application of anaesthetic creams or topical anaesthesia, have the best pain-relieving effect. Nevertheless, considering that the painful experience during venipuncture and vascular access are related both to perceived pain and procedural anxiety, the integrated use of pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques is warranted. In this sense, the appropriate preparation is a cornerstone of the procedure. In the article, brief management strategies, with easily implemented techniques to improve daily practice are provided.