JOPHON NCPD (2023 Nov/Dec) - Virtual Reality for Pediatric Oncology Port-A-Cath Access: A Pilot Effectiveness Study-Virtual Reality for Pediatric Oncology Port-A-Cath Access: A Pilot Effectiveness Study

Virtual Reality for Pediatric Oncology Port-A-Cath Access: A Pilot Effectiveness Study

Pdf Summary

This pilot mixed-method study evaluated whether a low-cost, commercially available virtual reality (VR) system could reduce pain and fear during port-a-cath needle access for children with cancer. Port access is a common and highly distressing procedure in pediatric oncology, even when topical anesthetics and other standard supports are used. The researchers tested an Oculus Go headset using free VR games as an immersive distraction tool.<br /><br />Families of pediatric oncology patients aged 4–17 were recruited from an outpatient clinic in the southeastern United States. Nineteen dyads enrolled and 16 completed the study. Children and caregivers rated the child’s pain and fear before VR and again immediately after the port access. Caregivers also rated nausea and dizziness, and children were monitored for side effects during VR use. Semi-structured interviews with children/caregivers and nurses assessed usability, acceptability, adverse events, and effects on nursing workflow.<br /><br />Results suggested potential benefit, particularly for younger children: there was a significant reduction in pain scores among younger participants and significant decreases in fear on both child and parent reports. Most children (about 87%) kept the headset on during the procedure, and most found it easy to use. The majority wanted to use VR again, frequently describing it as helpful for distraction and “forgetting” about the port access. Adverse effects were minimal; a few children reported mild nausea/dizziness, and one reported a headache related to wearing glasses with the headset, resolved by removing it.<br /><br />Nurses largely reported no concerns and minimal workflow disruption, with most indicating VR did not interfere with their procedure. The intervention was also inexpensive (about $404 total for two headsets plus cleaning supplies; games were free). The authors conclude VR is feasible and promising for reducing fear and possibly pain, but larger controlled studies are needed.

Keywords

virtual reality distraction

pediatric oncology

port-a-cath access

needle procedure pain reduction

procedure-related fear

Oculus Go headset

mixed-method pilot study

outpatient clinic feasibility

VR usability and acceptability

adverse effects nausea dizziness