Comparison between virtual reality and kaleidoscope for pediatric immunization distress

Kaleidoscope is an efficient distraction technique over virtual reality for mitigating discomfort during pediatric immunization.

Routine vaccinations, although essential for public health, often result in pain, fear, and anxiety in pediatric patients. Distraction methods, including virtual reality and kaleidoscopes, have been suggested as potential strategies to mitigate these adverse experiences during vaccinations. This randomized controlled trial sought to evaluate the comparative efficacy of virtual reality and kaleidoscope in minimizing pain, fear, and anxiety in 48-month-old kids undergoing routine immunization.

This study was performed at a pediatric clinic involving 126 children aged 48 months. Volunteers receiving the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine were segregated into three groups: [1] Virtual reality group (n = 42), [2] Kaleidoscope group (n = 42), and [3] Control group (n = 42).

Pain and fear levels were examined by both researchers and the kids prior to and after vaccination.  On the other hand, anxiety was estimated by the kids post-vaccination. Pain was calculated with the aid of the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, fear was assessed via the Children’s Fear Scale, and anxiety was measured via the Child Anxiety Scale-State Version.

In the kaleidoscope group, the post-vaccination scores for pain, fear, and anxiety were considerably reduced in comparison with both virtual reality and control groups (p < .05).

The use of kaleidoscope during vaccination in 48-month-old pediatrics significantly attenuated levels of pain, agony, and nervousness. Incorporating kaleidoscopes as a distraction tool in routine vaccination procedures could improve the overall vaccination experience and may lead to better adherence to immunization schedules.