Evaluating a relaxation technique to manage anxiety in children before surgery
Official title: Mixed-method Research Protocol: Evaluation of a Relaxation Technique for Anxiety Management in Pre-surgical Pediatric Patients
Run by Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS · NCT06846944 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 5 Years to 15 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Florence, Fi) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 31, 2024 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2025 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2025 |
| Registry record updated | February 26, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06846944 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with cognitive impairments or those who do not meet the age or language criteria may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Firenze
Florence, Fi, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Gabriella Barresi, Nurse
- Email: gabriella.barresi@meyer.it
- Phone: +390555662744
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.