Ametop was introduced into the formulary as it was deemed more efficacious for intravenous cannulation compared to EMLA. However, the incidences of adverse reactions seemed to be higher compared to other studies. This lead to a prospective observational study to look at the incidence and severity of skin reactions following routine clinical application of Ametop.

Ametop was introduced into the formulary as it was deemed more efficacious for intravenous cannulation compared to EMLA. After several critical incidences of adverse reactions that occurred with its application, a departmental audit was carried out to look at the incidence and severity reactions with its application as well as its outcome on intravenous cannulation. The findings of the departmental audit showed that the incidence of adverse reactions seemed to occur more commonly compared to other studies.

A prospective observational study was carried out to look at the incidence and severity of skin reactions following routine clinical application of Ametop.

This study aims to achieve the following:

1. Investigate the incidence and severity of adverse skin reactions following topical application of Ametop prior to intravenous cannulation
2. Assess the success rate of intravenous cannulation
3. Identify the possible risk factors associated with adverse skin reaction.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All paediatric patients presenting for surgery from August 2014 to May 2015 who have had Ametop applied prior to intravenous cannulation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any patient who did not have Ametop applied or have an intravenous cannula in situ.

Paediatric patients presenting for surgery in KK Women's and Children's Hospital

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