Using virtual reality to help children during allergy tests
Evaluation of the Use of a Virtual Reality Mask During Blood Tests and Prick Tests Performed in Allergic Children Aged 7 to 13 Years: a Multicenter, Randomized Trial
This study tests if using a virtual reality mask can help kids aged 7 to 13 feel less anxious and in less pain during allergy tests compared to traditional distraction methods.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 7 Years to 13 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Clermont-Ferrand and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05378581 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of a virtual reality mask in reducing anxiety and pain during blood and skin allergy tests for children aged 7 to 13. The trial compares two approaches: one using a local anesthetic cream with traditional distraction methods and the other incorporating a virtual reality mask for distraction. By immersing children in a virtual environment, the study aims to lessen their fear and discomfort associated with these medical procedures. The research is conducted at Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital and Saint-Etienne University Hospital.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 7 to 13 who require blood and prick tests for allergies.
Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to virtual reality use, such as heart disease or epilepsy, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the experience of allergy testing for children, making it less traumatic and more manageable.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on this specific approach, the use of virtual reality for pain and anxiety management in pediatric settings has shown promise in other studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children from 7 to 13 years old requiring blood test and prick tests in pediatric consultation at the Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital and in the pediatric's day hospital at the Saint-Etienne University Hospital * Subjects and their parents who were informed about the study and gave informed consent * Enrollment in the Social Security system * Children and parents able to use the self-report scales proposed in the study Exclusion Criteria: Children from 7 to 13 : * presenting a contraindication to the use of the virtual reality mask: heart disease, epilepsy, psychiatric illness (major anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder) * Having a modification of pain's integration (spina bifida for example) * Having received an analgesic before the care * Requiring contact isolation * With a history of seizures or motion sickness * Refusal of the parents and/or the child
Where this trial is running
Clermont-Ferrand and 1 other locations
- CHU de Clermont-Ferrand — Clermont-Ferrand, France (Recruiting)
- CHU de Saint Etienne — Saint-Étienne, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Alexandra USCLADE — University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand
- Study coordinator: Lise LACLAUTRE
- Email: promo_interne_drci@chu-clermontferrand.fr
- Phone: +33473754963
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.