The Effect of Acupressure at the Point of Hugo on Pain Severity of Needle Insertion in Arteriovenous Fistulas in Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

Background: The insertion of needles in arteriovenous fistula is leading to significant pain in patients undergoing hemodialysis. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pressure at the point of Hugo on pain of needle insertion arteriovenous fistulas in hemodialysis patients. Methods: In this single-group clinical trial, 35 hemodialysis patients in the Besat hospital with convenience sampling was performed. Researcher two minutes before and during insertion of needles in artery fistula area by nurse, acupressure was conducted on the hugo point on other hand. This work was done in 3 sessions. Paired t-test was used to measure pain intensity difference. Results: There was a significant difference in pain intensity during a routine care and pressure on the Hugo point. The mean pain scores after the Hugo point acupressure was decreased in all 3 phases (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Hugo acupressure points can be used as an effective and low-cost way to reduce the pain of needle insertion in fistulas in patients undergoing hemodialysis.