Using a stress ball or cartoons to ease fear, anxiety, and pain during skin prick tests in kids

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial compares two non-drug distraction methods—cartoon watching and use of a stress ball—to standard care in children aged 4 to 10 undergoing first-time skin prick testing for allergies. Ninety participants are randomly assigned to three equal groups: cartoon, stress ball, or control, with assessments before, immediately after, and 15 minutes post-procedure using standardized scales for fear, anxiety, pain, and satisfaction. The study is conducted at the Pediatric Allergy Outpatient Clinic of Çukurova University Balcalı Hospital, with parental involvement and observer nurse assessments. Primary aims are to determine if distraction reduces distress and improves satisfaction at the time points measured. Data will be collected from child, parent, and nurse perspectives to capture a multi-informant view of the procedure experience.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 4-10 years
* Undergoing an allergy test for the first time
* Voluntary participation by both the child and the parent

Exclusion Criteria:

* The child must not have taken any medication prior to the skin test
* The child must have a visual, hearing, or intellectual disability
* The child must have a physical condition that would prevent them from using the stress ball

Where it's running

• Tarsus University
  Tarsus, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Atiye KARAKUL
• Email: atiyekarakul@tarsus.edu.tr
• Phone: 903246000033

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.