Virtual Reality as a Nonpharmacological Strategy in Pediatric Pain Control During Procedures With Needle Use

Abstract

Introduction

Needle procedures can be very painful for children and generate stress and anxiety. Virtual reality (VR) has been used to enhance a child's distraction for pain control during these procedures. This study aims to identify the advantages and limitations of VR used for pain control in procedures using needles in pediatrics.

Methods

Studies were limited to children aged 4–18 years undergoing a procedure involving needles and the use of VR with goggles, headset, or helmet. A comprehensive search strategy using CINAHL Complete, MedicLatina, Medline Complete, B-on, LILACS, and SciELO databases was undertaken to find relevant studies published from January 2015 to April 2020. The retained studies included experimental and quasi-experimental, randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized controlled trials as well as prospective and retrospective studies.

Results

The search yielded 80 articles. Of these, six articles met the inclusion criteria. Advantages found with the use of VR were (a) decrease of pain; (b) improvement of communication; (c) increased probability of success in performing the procedures; (d) reduction of anxiety, stress, distress, and fear; (e) easier handling of equipment; (f) almost complete isolation of external noise; and (g) low cost, lightness, and ease of transportation. Disadvantages reported were goggles' size and annoyance from repeated play and the occasional side effect of nausea.

Discussion

VR is considered an interactive digital therapeutic toy used with positive effects in clinical practice. As children become calmer, VR can also reduce nursing stress and improve communication between children and nurses.