Effects of distraction methods on anxiety and pain during blood collection in children aged 9–13
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Non-pharmacological distraction methods are alternatives that can help relieve pain and anxiety during blood collection in pediatric patients. AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of distraction methods used during blood collection on pain and anxiety in children aged 9-13. Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale (WB-FACES) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were used to assess pain and anxiety levels. METHODS: A randomized controlled experimental study involving 450 pediatric patients aged 9-13 who applied to the pediatric endocrinology unit of a university hospital. During the blood collection procedure, children were randomly divided into 3 groups: watching cartoons, cold application (Buzzy), and control. Age-appropriate pain scales were used to assess pain. RESULTS: The study included 450 children, 57.6% (n = 259) male and 42.4% (n = 191) female, with a mean age of 11.02 ± 1.45. One-third (n = 150) of the participants were shown cartoons, and one-third (n = 150) were given the cold application method. The remaining 1/3 (n = 150) were not given any distraction intervention during blood collection. Significantly lower pain scores were recorded in both intervention groups compared to the control group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Less pain was noted in the Buzzy and cartoon groups compared to the control group. This suggests that these methods are effective non-pharmacological methods that can be used to reduce pain. The results show that these methods can be safely used for venipuncture pain in children aged 9-13 years.
Institutions: Selçuk University, Izmir Kâtip Çelebi University
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,090
OpenAlex ID: W7123351339