Evaluating Cartoons and Stress Ball Use to Reduce Fear, Anxiety, and Pain During Allergy Testing in Children Ages 4 to 10

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how watching cartoons and using a stress ball affect fear, anxiety, pain, and satisfaction in children aged 4 to 10 undergoing skin prick allergy testing. This randomized controlled trial includes 90 children divided into three groups to compare these non-drug distraction methods against routine care. The goal is to find ways to reduce distress during allergy testing in a pediatric outpatient setting. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups watching cartoons as a passive distraction, using a stress ball for active physical distraction, or receiving standard care without distraction. Each group has 30 children. The study takes place during allergy testing appointments, where interventions are applied and compared. Children, their parents, and observer nurses provide information using several scales measuring fear, anxiety, pain, and satisfaction. These assessments occur at three times two minutes before the test, immediately after while still in the procedure chair, and 15 minutes after testing during the skin reaction evaluation. The study aims to improve nursing care for children undergoing invasive diagnostic tests, with results shared through publications and conferences.

Using a Stress Ball on Fear, Anxiety, Pain, and Satisfaction During Allergy Testing