Research Information System
Journal of Pediatric Nursing, vol.86, pp.315-323, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus)
Objective The Palm Stimulator provides tactile stimulation through the palm of the hand. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the Palm Stimulator in reducing pain levels during intravenous blood draws in children aged 8–12 years. Additionally, the effect of the Palm Stimulator depending on the application site, i.e. the hand from which blood is being drawn or the contralateral hand, was evaluated. Method The study was conducted using a randomised controlled experimental design. Between May and July 2024, 168 children who came to the paediatric blood draw unit were randomised into three groups. Data were collected using the Child Information Form, Children's Fear Scale, Faces Pain Scale-Revised and Visual Analogue Scale. Results In both intervention groups, pain scores assessed by the child, parent, and observer (researcher) were found to be considerably lower than in the control group ( p < 0.05). No significant difference was found in terms of pain levels between same-hand and contralateral-hand application ( p > 0.05). Conclusion The Palm Stimulator was found to effectively reduce pain during an intravenous blood draw, regardless of where it was applied. These findings support the use of the Palm Stimulator as a flexible and effective non-pharmacological intervention in paediatric clinics.