Evaluating a relaxation technique to manage anxiety in children before surgery
Mixed-method Research Protocol: Evaluation of a Relaxation Technique for Anxiety Management in Pre-surgical Pediatric Patients
This study tests a breathing and relaxation technique to see if it can help children aged 5 to 15 feel less anxious before minor surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 5 Years to 15 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Florence, Fi) |
| Trial ID | NCT06846944 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a breathing and relaxation intervention to reduce preoperative anxiety in pediatric patients aged 5 to 15 years undergoing minor surgical procedures. The approach focuses on nonpharmacological techniques, which have shown promise in alleviating anxiety without the side effects associated with medication. By employing methods such as breathing exercises, the study seeks to improve the overall surgical experience for children and potentially reduce postoperative complications related to anxiety.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 5 to 15 years who are scheduled for minor surgical procedures and can communicate in Italian.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments or those who do not meet the age or language criteria may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce anxiety in pediatric patients, leading to better surgical outcomes and fewer side effects from postoperative medications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that nonpharmacological techniques, including distraction and relaxation methods, can effectively reduce anxiety in pediatric populations, suggesting a positive outlook for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 5 years and 15 years; * Admission for minor surgical conditions of low intensity, such as inguinal hernia, phimosis, sebaceous cysts, vascular malformations, skin lesions, ankyloglossus, afferent to the unified pediatric surgery day-surgery service of AOU Meyer; * Knowledge of the Italian language and ability to express oneself; Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of cognitive impairment reported in history
Where this trial is running
Florence, Fi
- Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Firenze — Florence, Fi, Italy (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Gabriella Barresi, Nurse
- Email: gabriella.barresi@meyer.it
- Phone: +390555662744
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.