Virtual Reality Distraction for Pediatric IVs and Venipuncture

A virtual reality headset significantly decreased children's pain, anxiety, and need for restraint during IV placement in a pediatric emergency department.

Researchers examined the impact of a virtual reality (VR) distraction on pain and anxiety in children aged 4 to 11 years undergoing venipuncture or intravenous (IV) cannulation in a pediatric ED (123 patients) or outpatient lab (131 patients) in Australia. Children were randomized to use of a VR device with an “interactive underwater adventure” or standard care. Children rated pain immediately before and after the procedure. The primary outcome was the change from baseline pain.

In the ED, the VR group's pain was significantly decreased from baseline, whereas the control group had no change. In the lab setting, both groups experienced increased pain from the procedure (although the VR group's increase was less). Postprocedural anxiety, careg…

Reviewing Author

Carolyn K. Holland, MD, MEd, FACEP, FAAP

Disclosures

EquityGeneral Electric

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine (Program Committee Chief Resident Forum Subcommittee Chair); American College of Emergency Physicians (Education Committee member)

Carolyn K. Holland, MD, MEd, FACEP, FAAP

Disclosures

EquityGeneral Electric

Virtual Reality Distraction for Pediatric IVs and Venipuncture

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Reviewing Author