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Open Access 01-12-2022 | Anxiety | Study protocol

Virtual reality (VR) to reduce anxiety in children in the plaster room: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Authors: Lisa van der Water, Max A. Poppelaars, Iris Koenraadt-van Oost, Pieter Boele van Hensbroek, Christiaan J. A. van Bergen

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2022

Abstract

Background

Paediatric fractures are highly prevalent and are most often treated with plaster. The removal of plaster is often an anxious experience for children. Virtual reality (VR) has proven to effectively distract children and reduce their anxiety in other clinical settings. This study aims to investigate the effect of VR on the anxiety level of children with fractures that undergo plaster removal or replacement in the plaster room.

Methods

This study is designed as a randomised controlled trial (RCT). The sample size is 270 patients, aged 5 to 17 years, with a fracture of the upper or lower extremity treated with plaster. The intervention group will be distracted with VR goggles and headphones during the replacement or removal of the plaster, whereas the control group will receive standard care. As a primary outcome, the level of anxiety will be measured with the Child Fear Scale (CFS). Secondary outcomes include anxiety reduction (difference between CFS after and CFS before plaster procedure) and Numeric Rating Scales (NRS) pain and satisfaction. Additionally, the children’s fastest heart rate during the procedure will be recorded. An unpaired samples t-test or a Mann-Whitney U test (depending on the data distribution) will be used to analyse the data.

Discussion

When completed, this trial will provide evidence on the potential role of VR in children with fractures treated with plaster. The purpose is to increase the quality of healthcare by decreasing anxiety and possibly pain perception of children during a plaster procedure.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial Register NL9065. Registered on 27 November 2020

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Title: Virtual reality (VR) to reduce anxiety in children in the plaster room: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lisa van der Water
Max A. Poppelaars
Iris Koenraadt-van Oost
Pieter Boele van Hensbroek
Christiaan J. A. van Bergen
Publication date: 01-12-2022
Publisher: BioMed Central
Keyword: Anxiety
Published in: Trials / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06488-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Virtual reality (VR) to reduce anxiety in children in the plaster room: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Background

Methods

Discussion

Trial registration

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Discussion

Trial registration

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