Effect of Cryoanalgesia on Pain Associated with Arterial Blood Gases Sampling for Critically Ill Patients

Background: Arterial puncture can be a painful procedure for many patients, To reduce pain related to arterial blood sampling, Cryotherapy is a general term that has been used to describe the local or general use of low temperatures for medical treatment. Aim: the present study aimed to determine Effect of cryoanalgesia on pain associated with arterial blood gases sampling for critically ill patients. Subjects and methods: A quasi-experimental research design was used in the study. Setting: The present study was conducted at medical ICU and trauma ICU of Beni-Suef University Hospital. A convenient sample consisting of 80 adult patients from both genders and they were divided randomly into two equal groups (No = 40) for each the (study and control group). Data were collected using two tool: Tool I: Patient characteristics, it includes: demographic data and Past & Present Health Status Assessment Sheet Tool II: Numerical Rating Scale. Results: The study group who were applied cryoanalgesia, reported less pain from arterial puncture compared with the control group. A statistically significant differences between the study group and control group in the level of pain and their age (χ 2 =7.766, P=0.050). And their previous arterial puncture (χ 2 =6.857, P=0.009). Conclusion: based on the result presented in this study, Cryoanalgesia before arterial puncture is well tolerated, reduces pain, Also, it is non-expensive, effortless, and available. Recommendations: A critical care nurses should use cryoanalgesia in the daily routine care of patients who require arterial blood gases sampling.