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Original Research | Nursing | Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026 | Pages: 1042 - 1047 | India
Effectiveness of Warm Water Compress on Peripheral Vein Visibility, Palpability, and Cannulation Success: A Pilot Study among Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy in Aizawl, Mizoram
Abstract: Background of the study: Peripheral intravenous cannulation is commonly performed on cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, but repeated access can hinder vein visibility and palpability, causing discomfort. Moist heat therapy, specifically warm water compresses, may improve this process. Methodology: A pilot randomized controlled trial with 10 participants at Nazareth Hospital, Aizawl, Mizoram, was conducted. Participants were split into an intervention group (n = 5) receiving warm compresses and a control group (n = 5) receiving standard care. Vein visibility and palpability were measured using the Vein Assessment Tool (VAT). Results: Scores in the intervention group were higher (Mean Rank = 7.20) than in the control group (Mean Rank = 3.80), though not statistically significant (U = 4.00, p = 0.065). Significant improvements in vein visibility and palpability were observed in the intervention group (Z = -2.023, p = 0.043). Eighty percent in the intervention group required only one attempt at cannulation versus 40% in the control group (p = 0.167). Conclusion: Warm water compresses enhance vein visibility and palpability, suggesting a safe method for improving peripheral venous access in chemotherapy patients, warranting further research.
Keywords: Warm water compress, chemotherapy, intravenous cannulation, vein visibility, palpability
How to Cite?: Eirene Manner, Mayengbam Benita Devi, C. Lalramdini, "Effectiveness of Warm Water Compress on Peripheral Vein Visibility, Palpability, and Cannulation Success: A Pilot Study among Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy in Aizawl, Mizoram", Volume 15 Issue 6, June 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1042-1047, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26618225541, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26618225541