Effectiveness of Shotblocker® in Reducing Pain and Improving Satisfaction in Pregnant Women Receiving Diphtheria-Tetanus Vaccination: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: This single-blind randomized controlled trial evaluated the effect of ShotBlocker® on pain and satisfaction levels during diphtheria-tetanus vaccination in pregnant women. Effective pain management is critical in pregnancy due to heightened physiological and emotional sensitivity, as well as the need to support maternal comfort and adherence to routine immunization programs. The study included 146 pregnant women attending a Family Health Center between October 2018 and June 2019. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 73) and control (n = 73) groups using a simple physical randomization method. Pulse rate was measured one minute before and after injection. The intervention group received the ShotBlocker, while the control group underwent standard intramuscular injection. Pain and satisfaction were assessed immediately after vaccination using the Visual Analog Scale and the Visual Patient Satisfaction Scale. ShotBlocker group reported lower pain scores (2.29 ± 1.53) compared to the control group (3.55 ± 1.84), and higher satisfaction scores (8.36 ± 1.27;7.55 ± 1.30). There was a statistically significant difference between the ShotBlocker and control groups in terms of pre- and post-injection pulse rates, pain severity, and satisfaction levels (p < 0.001). ShotBlocker significantly reduced pain and increased satisfaction during diphtheria-tetanus vaccination in pregnant women. It appears to be an effective, non-pharmacological tool to improve the vaccination experience.
Authors: Merve Ince, Leyla Khorshtd
Institutions: Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy Üniversitesi, Ege University
Language: English
Subfield: Emergency Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,590
OpenAlex ID: W4414808320