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The application of EMLA and glyceryl trinitrate ointment prior to venepuncture

Michael A, Andrew M

Anaesthesia and intensive care, 1996

Abstract

The efficacy of EMLA cream combined with glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) ointment was assessed by a double-blind prospective study. Adult female patients were randomly allocated to receive either EMLA 1 ml or 2 ml combined with GTN 2 mg, or EMLA 2 ml only. The difference in pain scores between the three groups was not statistically significant. When GTN was used with EMLA, the quality of the veins was superior and aided intravenous cannulation. There were no significant side-effects. It is concluded that if GTN is used with EMLA, the dose of EMLA can be reduced and intravenous cannulation is technically easier compared with EMLA alone.

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Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.

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