Effect of Virtual Reality and Serious Games on Pain, Fear, Anxiety, and Satisfaction During Skin Prick Testing in Children

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality and Serious Games on Pain, Fear, Anxiety, and Satisfaction During Skin Prick Testing in Children Aged 6-12 Years: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) and serious gaming (SG) in reducing pain, fear, and anxiety, and improving satisfaction during skin prick testing (SPT) in children aged 6-12 years. A total of 90 children were randomly assigned to three groups: standard care (control), VR, or SG. The VR group watched a 360° animated video using a headset, while the SG group played Subway Surfers on a tablet. Pain (WBFPS), fear (CFS), anxiety (CAS-S), and satisfaction (VAS) were measured post-procedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Children aged 6 to 12 years
• Scheduled to undergo an allergy skin prick test
• No visual impairments
• No use of anxiolytic or analgesic medication within the past six hours
• Voluntary agreement to participate (child assent and parental consent)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Not within the 6-12 age range
• Not scheduled for an allergy skin prick test
• Presence of visual impairments
• Use of anxiolytic or analgesic medication within the past six hours
• Refusal to participate