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Archive | ISSUE: 162, Volume: Jul-Sep-2026

PAIN ATTENUATION IN VENOUS CATHETERISATION/VENIPUNCTURE: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF TOPICAL ANAESTHESIA USE AMONG 448 RESPONDENTS IN AFRICA


Author:Osadolor AJ, Ugwoke GE, Oladepo OO, Osadolor OO, Ekpeti AP, Ugorji CV, Omorogbe KI, Ubogu AN, Okpalaugo PN, Onaghinor, EM

published date:2026-Sep-14

FULL TEXT in - | page 131–140

Abstract

Background: Pain associated with peripheral venous catheter (PVC) insertion and venipuncture can be a significant source of discomfort, particularly for children. The use of topical anaesthetic preparations before PVC insertion can reduce discomfort and enhance health-seeking behaviour.

Objective: This review aimed to assess the efficacy of topical anaesthesia in reducing pain during PVC insertion compared with placebo or no treatment, and to evaluate the associated adverse effects of topical anaesthetic preparations among the African population.

Methods: This review was conducted using a systematic literature search of the following databases and registers: PubMed, NDLTD, OATD, TROVE, LILACS, Scopus, The Cochrane Library, CINAHL & MEDLINE [via EBSCOhost], Africa Journal Online (AJOL), Google Scholar, and MedNar, conducted between November and December 2023. Prospective observational studies, randomised controlled trials, case-control studies, longitudinal studies, theses and dissertations were considered in these searches. A total of four studies and 448 respondents participated in the review.

Result: All studies investigated the efficacy of various topical agents, including 5% EMLA and 10% lidocaine cream, and demonstrated a significant reduction in pain with topical anaesthesia compared to placebo or no treatment. The adverse/side effect profile was generally favourable, with no major adverse reactions reported.

Conclusion: Topical anaesthesia is a valuable tool in reducing procedural pain during peripheral venous catheterisation and venipuncture in the African population. This review establishes its superiority over placebo or no treatment. Specifically, 10% lidocaine outperforms 5% EMLA in minimising procedural pain with minimal side effects.

Keywords: Peripheral venous catheterisation/cannulation; Venipuncture; Topical Anaesthesia; Pain attenuation; Africa.

Cite this article: Osadolor AJ, Ugwoke GE, Oladepo OO, Osadolor OO, Ekpeti AP, Ugorji CV, et al. Pain attenuation in venous catheterisation/venipuncture: a narrative review of topical anaesthesia use among 448 respondents in Africa. Niger Delta J Med Med Res. 2026;5(3):131–140.

Keywords: Peripheral venous catheterisation/cannulation; Venipuncture; Topical Anaesthesia; Pain attenuation; Africa. ,,,,

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