Venipuncture and peripheral intravenous access are the painful procedures more commonly performed in children. This article aims to present the techniques that are available and usually employed to decrease pain and distress during these procedures. Evidence shows that pharmacological techniques, such as the application of anaesthetic creams or topical anaesthesia, have the best pain-relieving effect. Nevertheless, considering
that the painful experience during venipuncture and vascular access is related both to perceived pain and procedural anxiety, the integrated use of pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques is warranted. In this sense, the appropriate preparation is a cornerstone of the procedure. The article presents brief management strategies with easily implemented techniques that help improve daily practice.
