Children's experiences of intravenous injection using the draw, write, and tell method

The present study investigated the perceptions and experiences of children receiving intravenous (IV) injections and the self-reported pain scores and management strategies that can help them while receiving IV injections.

It recruited 17 children between the ages of 4–11 years who received IV injections and collected data using the draw, write, and tell method (DWT) and Facial Pain Rating Scale. 

The study observed-

• The children reported the mean pain score as 4.82, indicating moderate pain.
• Their expressions indicated IV injections to be painful or cause tingling or stinging sensations.
• A vague fear of needles, along with pain, exists after listening to the children and analyzing their own interpretation of drawings.
• Pain mainly observes three main themes: (1) physical and emotional experiences, (2) parents as my secure base, and (3) comfort and relief strategies.

This study found children's experiences during IV injections, their pain and fear alleviation, and their suggestions for comfort and relief strategies visually, auditorily, and verbally. It also found that parents have an important role in supporting their children and reducing pain, anxiety, and distress during the IV procedure.

Hence, with an arts-based and child-centered approach, the DWT is a useful and valid method for understanding children's experience during IV injection. Nurses should promote children's and parents' participation in developing strategies to lessen the negative effects of IV injections in children.

Kim JS. Children's experiences of intravenous injection using the draw, write and tell method: A mixed-methods study. Journal of Pediatric Nursing. 2023;71:14-22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2023.03.005.