Virtual Reality vs. Standard-of-Care for Comfort Before and After Sedation in the Emergency Department

A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial of Virtual Reality vs. Standard-of-Care for Comfort Before and After Sedation in the Emergency Department

Children often need procedural sedation in the emergency department during painful procedures (such as reducing fractures).

Virtual Reality (VR) is an immersive experience using sight, sound, and position sense. Using VR may enhance distraction during the painful procedure and may reduce attention to pain. VR may also reduce anxiety during sedation induction by reducing providing an alternative stimulus.

This study will randomize children (6 - 16 years old) to receive Virtual Reality or standard of care while undergoing procedural sedation. Investigators will measure heart rate, blood pressure, satisfaction (child, parent, provider), amount of sedatives used and compare between the two groups.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

1. Children age 6 to 16 years
2. The managing physician determines need for procedural sedation
3. Parents will sign a consent form and children will sign an assent form

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

1. Children with conditions that may prohibit participation or evaluation of the procedure (such as developmental delay, autism, inability to communicate)
2. Triage category 1 (resuscitation)
3. Facial features or injury prohibiting wearing the VR goggles