Application of ice cube prior to subcutaneous injection of heparin in pain perception and ecchymosis of patients with cardiovascular problems.

In this experimental study of patients with cardiovascular problems, conducted at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, purposive sampling technique was done from cardiology ward and CCU to obtain adequate samples. The sample comprised of 30 experimental group patients and 30 control group patients. The conceptual framework was based on the system model proposed by Ludwig Van Bertalanffy in 1957. Quasi experimental research approach was adopted for the study with post-test only control group design. The independent variable for the study was the ice cube application for 3 min and the dependent variables were pain perception and ecchymosis. The tools used for data collection were, structured interview schedule for sample characteristics, numerical rating scale for pain for subjective assessment, transparent ruler scale to measure the total surface area of ecchymosis, and for treatment ice-cubes in latex glove for giving cold compress. Subjects were asked to rate pain by showing the flash chart of standard pain rating scale immediately after the needle was withdrawn and ecchymosis was observed 48 hrs after the day of injection. The obtained difference between experimental and control group ecchymosis score, and pain perception score was statistically significant as evident from t-value at 0.05 level of significance.