Comparison of the Effects of Hegu Point Ice Massage and 2% Lidocaine Gel on Arteriovenous Fistula Puncture-Related Pain in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

ARTICLE INFO Article Type: Original Article Article History: Received: 18 Aug 2016 Accepted: 21 Nov. 2016 ePublished: 1 Jun. 2017 Keywords: Ice Acupressure Lidocaine Renal dialysis Vascular fistula Pain managements ABSTRACT Introduction: There is a paucity of information on the effects of Hegu point ice massage and 2% lidocaine gel on fistula puncture-related pain in hemodialysis patients. The comparison of the pain score before and after interventions of the lidocaine gel and ice massage groups was found to bear significant differences. [...]the comparison of the mean changes of the pain score before and after the intervention of the Hegu point ice massage groups revealed a further reduction for Hegu point than of lidocaine gel groups. Introduction Nowadays, Hemodialysis is the major kidney function replacement in patients with end-stage renal diseases (ESRD) before proceeding with the transplant.1 Hemodialysis is used to treat more than 60% of ESRD patients in the USA.2 A very high annual growth of 6.22% is observed in cases of kidney failure in Iran, as approximately 4000 new patients are added to the previous cases every year.3 A successful hemodialysis requires access to safe, durable and reliable vessels.4 Fistula is the best way to access the blood stream.5 Hemodialysis patients normally undergo 2-3 hemodialysis sessions per week.6 The patients are, therefore, exposed to frequent stress and pain caused by approximately 300 arteriovenous fistula punctures per year. [...]the reduction of the pain results in an improvement in the patients' quality of life and compliance with hemodialysis.7 Fifty-eight and a...