The Acceptability of Imagery-Hypnosis for Management of Pain, Anxiety, and Distress Related to Needle Procedures in Pediatric Oncology-Hematology Patients

This pilot trial used a repeated-measures, small n design to evaluate the acceptability and general effectiveness of imagery-hypnosis for management of pain, anxiety, and distress related to needle procedures in pediatric oncology-hematology patients. A systematic review of the literature was conducted. Previous studies reported imagery and hypnotic interventions as effective in reducing pain, distress, and anxiety related to painful and distressful medical procedures. Huth and Moore's (1998) Theory of Acute Pain Management in Infants and Children provided the framework for this project. A convenience sample of 20 pediatric oncology-hematology patients was taught imagery-hypnosis that was then employed during needle procedures. Assessments of procedure-related pain, anxiety, and distress were conducted with a standard Visual Analogue Scale at baseline, immediately following the procedure to measure the same dimensions experienced during the procedure, and again in the same fashion with a similar subsequent procedure. Parental assessments of anxiety were obtained at the same intervals as those of the children using the same scale. Demographic and qualitative data were elicited from children, parents, and healthcare staff using questionnaires. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. Content analysis was used for qualitative data. Group mean scores for distress and anxiety in children and parental anxiety diminished over time. Group mean scores for pain did not reveal an appreciable effect, but median scores showed a downward trend. The imagery-hypnosis experience was enjoyable for children. Parents and healthcare staff revealed favorable perceptions. Imagery-hypnosis was found to be acceptable for the management of pain, anxiety, and distress related to needle procedures.