Technology versus nostalgia; A randomized controlled trial of the effect of virtual reality and kaleidescop on pediatric pain, fear and anxiety management during immunization

BACKGROUND

Routine vaccination procedures, while crucial for public health, can induce pain, fear, and anxiety in children. Distraction techniques such as virtual reality and kaleidoscope have been proposed to alleviate these negative experiences during vaccinations.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of virtual reality and kaleidoscope as distraction methods in reducing pain, fear, and anxiety during routine vaccination in children aged 48 months.

DESIGN

This randomized controlled trial allocated children aged 48 months receiving the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine into three groups: virtual reality (n = 42), kaleidoscope (n = 42), and control (n = 42).

SETTING(S)

The study was conducted in a pediatric clinic.

PARTICIPANTS

The study included a total of 126 children aged 48 months.

METHODS

Pain and fear levels were assessed by both researchers and children before and after the vaccination procedure, while anxiety was evaluated by children after vaccination. Pain was measured using the Wong Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, fear with the Children's Fear Scale, and anxiety with the Child Anxiety Scale-State Version.

RESULTS

Post-vaccination pain, fear, and anxiety scores were significantly lower in the kaleidoscope group compared to both the virtual reality and control groups (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Using kaleidoscope during vaccination in 48-month-old children effectively reduced pain, fear, and anxiety. Integrating kaleidoscope as a distraction method during routine vaccination procedures may enhance the vaccination experience and potentially improve adherence to vaccination schedules.

REGISTRATION

Clinical trials number is NCT0611XXXX.