Virtual reality is proving to be more than just a tool for gaming as researchers at Griffith University explore its potential in pediatric burns pain management at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Professor Bronwyn Griffin, leading the study, has been evaluating the effectiveness of Smileyscope in alleviating pain and anxiety during dressing changes for young patients with burn injuries.
Professor Griffin emphasized the significance of addressing burn pain promptly to avoid delays in wound healing and prevent long-term physical and psychological impacts on patients. The Smileyscope VR headset offers a distraction technique through tailored games and relaxation programs for children undergoing painful procedures, with positive feedback from both patients and parents.
Kristen Storey, Burns Nurse Practitioner at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, highlighted the role of virtual reality in providing a calming and engaging environment for young patients during treatment, thereby reducing pain, anxiety, and distress. The collaboration between Griffith University and the hospital aims to translate innovative research into practical care that enhances the hospital experience and long-term health outcomes for children and adolescents.
The Smileyscope study demonstrated promising results in pediatric burns pain management, offering a non-pharmacological approach to improving pain and distress in young patients. Professor Griffin acknowledged the need for further development to tailor the VR headset and programs to suit a diverse range of age groups.
The research, conducted in a clinical setting with an average patient age of seven years, revealed that contact burns and scald burns were the most common mechanisms of injury, with superficial partial thickness burns being the predominant depth of injury. The study’s findings were published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing under the title ‘Acceptability and usability of Smileyscope Virtual Reality for pediatric pain management during burn procedures: Perspectives of patients, carers, and clinicians’.
Virtual reality’s application in pediatric burns pain management aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals of promoting good health and well-being, as well as fostering industry innovation and infrastructure. The integration of VR technology in healthcare signifies a shift towards more patient-centered and holistic approaches to pain management and treatment.
As the healthcare industry continues to embrace technological advancements, the use of virtual reality in pain management for pediatric patients presents a promising avenue for enhancing patient care and improving treatment outcomes. By leveraging innovative solutions like Smileyscope, healthcare professionals can mitigate the challenges associated with painful procedures, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of care for young patients undergoing burn treatment.
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