Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
2
Lecturer of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
3
Lecturer of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
4
Associated Professor of Pediatric Oncology South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University
Abstract
Background: Chemotherapy frequently causes pain, fear, and anxiety. Children typically practice this sense during invasive chemotherapy-related procedures, of which cannulation is one. The most frequent medical operations for children are cannulation insertions, which are frequently distressing and uncomfortable for both children and their parents. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of virtual reality on children’s fear, pain, and physiological parameters during cannula insertion for receiving chemotherapy in pediatric patients. Methods: A randomized controlled trial of a two-group design, with a convenient sample of 60 children admitted to the oncology department at the Cancer Institute in Assiut governorate. Eligible children were randomly divided into an experimental and a control group. Children in the experimental group were shown a VR (eyeglasses specialized for that goal) video during cannulation. While subjects in the control group received cannulation without any distraction method. The outcome variables were assessed by the investigator before, during, and after cannulation. Three tools were used to collect data for this study: Personal and clinical data sheet, Children’s Fear Scale, and The Objective Pain Scale. Statistical analysis of the data was carried out. Results: The children's ages ranged from 5 – 20 years. Respiration and pulse rates were significantly less in children who used VR especially during and after cannulation time points. Significantly less pain was felt by children using the VR eyewear. Also, fear and pain significantly decreased in the study group during and after cannulation. Conclusion: VR can be successfully used to distract children decrease the amount of fear, and pain, and enhance physiological stability among chemotherapy. Implications for Practice: VR can be a great way to distract children from their fear and pain, which can be a nightmare for kids and their parents during any invasive procedure.
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