Effect of Cold–Gel Packing on Episiotomy Pain among Postnatal Mothers

Abstract

The aim of this study: was to evaluate the effect ofusing cold-gel packing on episiotomy pain among postnatal mothers. The Design: Quasi-experimental design was used to conduct the study. Setting: The study was conducted at thepostpartum unit of obstetrics and gynecology department in Benha University Hospital. Sample: A simple random sample was comprised of 104 postnatal mothers (52study group and 52 control group) who had an episiotomy recruited in this study. Tools of data collection: Three main tools were used: structured interview questionnaire, Visual analogue scale (VAS) &follow up sheets. Results:the present study revealed that women in the study group reported significantly lower level of pain than the control group immediate post and follow up application of cold gel pack than pretest (p <0.001). Conclusion: The study concluded that, episiotomy pain for study group (cold gel pack) was relieved better than control group (Routine care). Recommendations: Increase awareness of maternity nurses to apply a cold gel pack on episiotomy incision immediately postpartum for all women with episiotomy to enhance relieves of episiotomy pain, Cold gel pack should be available in the postpartum unit for mothers to use immediately after birth