Taking the Sting out of Sticks: Increasing Patient Satisfaction by Reducing the Pain of PVCs

Abstract

Venous catheterization is a common invasive procedure in the hospital setting. Current standard practice in many hospitals does not include the use of any anesthetic for the process, though it is generally understood that the procedure at a minimum results in patient discomfort and can result in anxiety and severe pain. Depending on a patient’slength of stay, several catheterizations may be required, increasing this discomfort andresulting in lower patient satisfaction. The aim of this project is to explore the use of localanesthetics as a means to reduce pain and anxiety and increase patient satisfaction withhospital stays. The references utilized not only studied the effect of various painmanagement strategies, but also examined patient preferences toward decision-making as it relates to overall patient satisfaction