A Review of The Effectiveness of Distraction Techniques on Pain Perception During Pediatric Procedures
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Authors
Kolstad, Abigail
Dias, Laura
Date of Issue
2025-04-25
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Subject Keywords
Other Titles
The Effect of Distraction Techniques on Pain Perception During Pediatric Procedures
Abstract
Pain experienced by pediatric patients during procedures such as venipuncture remains a significant concern. Despite awareness, many children undergo procedures without effective pain-reduction strategies. Procedural pain can lead to immediate distress and long-term consequences, including needle phobia, healthcare avoidance, and impaired coping. Distraction techniques are non-pharmacological interventions such as virtual reality (VR), music therapy, toys, animated videos, and guided imagery that aim to shift a child’s attention away from painful procedures. Routine is standard procedural practice that includes basic emotional support or minimal distraction but lacks systematic evidence-based tools. Perceived pain is the subjective experience reported by the pediatric patient, often measured using age-appropriate pain scales. Pediatric patients involve children undergoing clinical procedures, typically ranging from infancy to adolescence, who are at risk of heightened pain and anxiety. The purpose of this Evidence-Based Practice review is to evaluate the effectiveness of distraction techniques compared to routine care in reducing perceived pain in pediatric patients undergoing procedures. This review focuses on interventions that are accessible, cost-effective, and practical within diverse healthcare settings. Nurses can use this information to implement distraction methods during procedures, to reduce perceived pain, enhance patient cooperation, build trust with families, and foster a more supportive care environment. These approaches give nurses an important, non-pharmacological role in managing pain.