Effects of Robotic Pet and Video-Based Distraction on Pain, Fear, and Anxiety in Children During Venipuncture

The goal of this randomized controlled clinical trial is to evaluate the effects of robotic pet and video-based distraction on pain, fear, and anxiety in children aged 5-10 years undergoing venipuncture. The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Does robotic pet distraction reduce pain, fear, and anxiety in children during venipuncture?
• Does video-based distraction reduce pain, fear, and anxiety in children during venipuncture?
• Are there differences in pain, fear, and anxiety among children receiving robotic pet distraction, video-based distraction, and routine care?

Children who met the eligibility criteria were randomly assigned to one of three groups the robotic pet group, video-based distraction group, or control group using simple randomization. The randomization sequence was computer-generated using RANDOM.ORG and prepared by an independent statistician. The uploaded randomization record confirms that a random sequence of participant numbers from 1 to 81 was generated. Allocation concealment was maintained using sequentially numbered, sealed, opaque envelopes, which were opened after each participant was enrolled in the study.

Participants:

Robotic pet group: interacted with a robotic pet as a distraction intervention during venipuncture.

Video-based distraction group: watched an animal video as a distraction intervention during venipuncture.

Control group: received routine care during venipuncture without an additional distraction intervention.

Researchers compared the three groups to determine the effects of robotic pet and video-based distraction on children's pain, fear, and anxiety during venipuncture.