There have been studies comparing the effectiveness of bacteriostatic normal saline (BNS) intradermal and lidocaine as a local anesthetic prior to venipuncture. Studies found them equally effective;for example: "Comparison of 4 analgesic agesnts for venipuncture". AANA Journal/February 2000/Vol. 68, No. 1. I'd like to know what hospitals/agencies are using BNS prior to venipuncture and what feedback has been received from patients/staff. Also would appreciate it if someone could share their policy.Â