The Effect of Shot Blocker Application on Intramuscular Injection Pain in Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Intramuscular (IM) injection is a frequently used nursing practice in clinical practice. IM injection is a complex process that requires technical competence and effective decision-making in terms of the tools and methods involved. Despite the therapeutic effect of IM injection, it may cause pain and discomfort in patients. This study was carried out to determine the effect of the ShotBlocker application on intramuscular injection-induced pain. Methods: This is a randomized controlled study. The study data were collected between November and December 2018. Data were collected using a questionnaire and Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The patients were randomized into two groups as experimental group and control groups. The study was completed with 176 patients including 88 patients in the experimental group and 88 patients in the control group. Results: The mean VAS scores of the experimental and control groups were 1.2 ± 1.3 and 1.1 ± 1.6, respectively. No significant difference was found between the mean VAS scores of the experimental and control groups (p> 0.05). Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that administration of IM injection in adults using ShotBlocker did not reduce the severity of pain.