Implementation and Evaluation of a Nonpharmacological Device to Improve Satisfaction During Immunization

Abstract

Problem & Purpose: Immunization pain is the most common pain experienced by children when visiting their primary healthcare office. In a pediatric primary care office on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, there are inadequate pain relief options used during immunization. Untreated pain can lead to sensitization to future painful experiences leading to greater fear and anxiety, intense distress with future immunizations, needle phobia, and avoidance of healthcare as the individual ages. The purpose of the project was to implement and evaluate the use of the Buzzy device to improve satisfaction during immunization for children aged four to 18 years. The Buzzy device combines vibration and external cold analgesia to control pain at the injection site. Methods: All families with children aged four through 18 years receiving an immunization were educated on and offered use of the Buzzy device. The LPNs assessed the child’s pain score after all administrations and distributed a satisfaction survey to each family when Buzzy was utilized. Data were collected using an implementation log. Data were analyzed using run charts and were presented to the Clinical Site Representative and staff on a monthly basis to elicit feedback. Results: Results indicate that after receiving education on the Buzzy and project goals, 100% of the children and families were willing to try using the Buzzy device to minimize immunization pain and improve satisfaction. Overall satisfaction was scored at 86.3% and among satisfied families, the average pain rating was two out of 10. Conclusions: Data collected indicate that use of the Buzzy device is effective in improving satisfaction during immunization in children and should continue being offered for distraction during immunization. Buzzy sustainability will continue to be driven by family satisfaction with the device during immunization and the device remaining in the practice. Project results will be disseminated through poster presentations.