Clinical journal of oncology nursing
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Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has been reliably accurate as a minimally invasive surgical alternative for identifying lymphatic breast metastasis. During mapping, the injection of a radioactive tracer or isosulfan blue dye to differentiate the SLN is acutely painful. ⋯ Results indicated a significant difference in mean pain rating. Standards of care should include the use of EMLA prior to intradermal SLN tracer injection unless contraindicated.