Buzzy Device Versus EMLA for Pain Control in Pediatric IV Placement

Although the Buzzy device was less effective for pain control than an EMLA patch, it works much faster, so don't throw the “buzzy” out with the bathwater.

Researchers compared pain scores during IV placement and venipuncture between children randomized to treatment with an EMLA patch (lidocaine 2.5%, prilocaine 2.5%) or external cold/vibration pain distraction via a Buzzy device (https://buzzyhelps.com/). Roughly 300 children aged 18 months to 6 years were enrolled in each treatment arm at a Canadian pediatric emergency department (ED). Pain was measured using the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Pain Scale (score ranges from 4 [no pain] to 13). A score >8 was considered pain severe enough to need analgesia.

More children in the EMLA group than the Buzzy group had a pain score ≤8 (62% vs. 37%). Mean pain scores were 7.2 in the EMLA group versus 8.5 in the Buzzy group. Parents preferred E…

Reviewing Author

Carolyn K. Holland, MD, MEd, FACEP, FAAP

Disclosures

EquityGeneral Electric

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine (Program Committee Chief Resident Forum Subcommittee Chair); American College of Emergency Physicians (Education Committee member)

Carolyn K. Holland, MD, MEd, FACEP, FAAP

Disclosures

EquityGeneral Electric

Buzzy Device Versus EMLA for Pain Control in Pediatric IV Placement

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Reviewing Author