The correlation between anxiety and pain due to intravenous catheters in children with thalassemia

Establishing an intravenous line, which is one of the most common invasive procedures in children, is a source of physical and mental stress. Since one of the responsibilities of medical staff is to take care of children pain and anxiety, attention to this matter is necessary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between pain and anxiety in children with thalassemia caused by intravenous catheters. In a descriptive study, one hundred and twenty 6-12 year old children with thalassemia in Kerman attended Thalassemia Center through 2009-2010. Demographic characteristics and numerical rating scale were used for measurement of pain and anxiety. Data were analyzed by using descriptive and analytical testing and Spearman rank correlation coefficient. The results showed that children experienced severe to moderate pain and anxiety during injection and also reports showed a significant positive association between anxiety before the injection and pain after the injection. Since nurses play an important role in controlling pain and anxiety especially in case of children, it would be a better and more effective strategy if they are offered necessary training in this regard.