Virtual Reality vs. Standard-of-Care for Comfort During Immunizations in Children

A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial of Virtual Reality vs. Standard-of-Care for Comfort During Immunizations in Children

Children need routine immunizations which can be a painful procedure associated with pain and anxiety. This is particularly true of children visiting the children's hospital to visit relatives during flu season. No topical anesthetic or oral analgesia is commonly used.

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.

This study will randomize children (6 - 16 years old) to receive Virtual Reality or standard of care while receiving immunizations. Investigators will measure pain, anxiety and satisfaction.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Children age 6 to 16 years
2. Patients arriving to the immunization clinic for immunization.
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)
2. Facial features or injury prohibiting wearing the VR goggles
3. VR system may interfere with immunization