VR distraction, EMLA cream, or standard care for kids' blood draws

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

In this randomized trial, children undergoing venipuncture are assigned to one of three pain-reduction approaches: virtual reality distraction using a headset, topical anesthesia with EMLA cream, or standard care without extra pain control. Pain is measured immediately after the procedure using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (0-10). The study plans to enroll about 450 participants across a single center in Ústí nad Labem. The goal is to see if VR provides greater pain relief than EMLA cream or usual care. Safety considerations include allergy to anesthetics and any cognitive or behavioral factors that might affect pain reporting.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Children aged 3 to 15 years.
* Clinical indication for venipuncture.
* Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian and verbal or written assent from the child, as appropriate for age and cognitive ability.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known hypersensitivity to local anesthetics.
* Diagnosed mental disorder.
* Current treatment with analgesic or anxiolytic medications.
* Venipuncture not successful on the first attempt.

Where it's running

• Krajska zdravotni, a.s. - Masarykova nemocnice v Usti nad Labem
  Ústí nad Labem, Ústí nad Labem Region, Czechia Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Marie Lulková, Mgr.
• Email: marie.lulkova@kzcr.eu
• Phone: +420733756630

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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.