Virtual Reality Distraction Therapy in Paediatrics
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Improve patient safety and wellbeing in Leeds Children Hospital for patients undergoing procedures through use of Virtual Reality Distraction Therapy (VRDT), and improve their overall experience.
IRAS ID
273544
Contact name
Alexander Paes
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
For many children in hospital, having blood tests or cannulation is a significantly distressing event physically, psychologically and emotionally. Use of distraction during invasive procedures is already common practice in paediatrics to improve the experience both for the child and parents. Use of Virtual Reality (VR) and VR Distraction Therapy (VRDT) is a relatively new concept, but has already shown promising results in studies.
“VR offers an interactive distraction technique, a contrast to the passive distraction of reading a book or playing games on a tablet … and [VR] is thought to alter pain perception and the child’s interpretation of pain signals.” (Cochrane Library - Virtual reality simulation for reducing pain in children).
Our project aims to collect data about venepuncture, cannulation, long lines - qualitative and quantitative data - from children and parents. We will compare current standard practice with VR distraction therapy.
REC name
West Midlands - Solihull Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/WM/0141
Date of REC Opinion
20 Jul 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion