The effect of a biofeedback-based virtual reality game on pain, fear and anxiety levels during port catheter needle insertion in pediatric oncology patients: a randomized controlled study

Abstract

Purpose: It is essential to control pain, fear, and anxiety related to medical procedures to improve the well-being of the child and family trying to cope with the disease process. This study investigated the impact of the biofeedback-based virtual reality game (BioVirtualPed) on pain, fear, and anxiety levels during port needle insertion in pediatric oncology patients (POPs). Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted at a hospital between August and December 2023 involving 62 POPs aged 6-12 and their mothers. The intervention group wore a virtual reality headset and a respiratory sensor during the procedure. Data were collected using the Descriptive Information Form, Wong-Baker Pain Assessment Scale, Child Fear Scale, Children's State Anxiety, Satisfaction Scoring-Visual Analog Scale, and ADXL354 Sensor. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS for Windows Version 24.0. Results: The intervention group showed lower mean pain scores than the control group (p < 0.001). There was no difference in pre-procedure fear and anxiety scores between groups (p > 0.05 and p > 0.05, respectively). Post-procedure fear and anxiety scores were lower in the intervention group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The intervention group's mean respiratory rates were lower (p < 0.001), and their satisfaction scores were higher (p < 0.001). Agreements between POPs and mothers on pain, fear, and anxiety scores were good and excellent across groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The BioVirtualPed reduced procedure-related pain, anxiety, and fear, increased care satisfaction, and had a positive effect on the mean respiratory rate, hence it shows promising results, but these findings need further comfirmation.