The efficacy of playing a virtual reality game in modulating pain among children with acute burn injuries: A randomized case-control trial

Abstract

Debashish Das, Karen Grimmer, Bruce Thomas, Tony Sparnon, Sarah Mc Rae

Burn injuries are known to be very painful, emotionally distressing and cause for anxiousness in children and their parents. The child's response to procedural pain contributes to dressing changes being laborious. Being reminded visually can further attract a stronger pain response. The traditional method of pharmacologic analgesia is often insufficient to cover pain and can have deleterious side effects. Intervention with Virtual Reality (VR) games is based on distraction or interruption in the way current thoughts, including pain, are processed by the mind. Past research supports the hypothesis that virtual reality has an encouraging influence on pain modulation.

This study investigates whether playing a virtual reality game, has an influence on procedural pain, in children with acute burn injuries, within the age group of 5 and 18. The study is a randomised case-control trial where the child acts his/her own control. The outcome is measured using the self-report Face Scale for pain, Visual Analogue Scale for reporting anxiety and results based on interviews with parent/carer and attending nurses. A blinded assessor evaluates levels of stress, while watching video footage of dressing changes, using Behaviour Distress Scale.

The preliminary trials indicate indisputable support for the effectiveness of VR based games on pain modulation. With minimal side effects, inherent reusability and versatility, VR can herald another option in the endeavour to manage pain.

Debashish Das

Project Officer

Centre of Allied Health Evidence

 School of Health Sciences

University of South Australia

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