Effects of Virtual Reality and Helfer Skin Tap During Vaccination

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Virtual Reality Group: A brief orientation regarding the use of the virtual reality headset will be provided to the children. One minute prior to the vaccination procedure, the selected video-either a roller coaster or Formula 1 experience, based on the child's preference-will be initiated through the virtual reality headset. Throughout the procedure, the children will continue to watch the video using the virtual reality headset.

Helfer Skin Tap Group: The Helfer Skin Tap technique is applied to reduce pain and muscle tension during intramuscular injection by stimulating large nerve fibers through rhythmic tapping. After determining the injection site and preparing the skin with alcohol, the area is tapped for approximately 5 seconds using the dominant hand. The syringe is then held in the dominant hand while a "V" shape is formed with the non-dominant hand to tap the skin firmly three times. On the count of three, the needle is inserted at a 90° angle. After aspiration, the medication is injected slowly while gentle tapping continues to maintain muscle relaxation. The procedure concludes with simultaneous needle withdrawal and a final V-shaped tap to minimize discomfort.

Study summary

The aim of this study was to detect and compare the effects of Virtual Reality and Helfer Skin Tap methods on pain, fear, anxiety, and satisfaction during the administration of Tetanus-Diphtheria vaccine to school-aged children. This study was an experimental randomized controlled trial. The sample was included 138 children in a family health centers aged 13 years who underwent Tetanus-Diphtheria vaccine. The participants were randomly assigned to Virtual Reality, Helfer Skin Tap, and control groups. Each group included 46 children, of whom 23 were female and 23 were male. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Children's Fear Scale and Visual Analog Scale were used to collect the data.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Visual Analog Scale (VAS) — The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be administered immediately prior to and immediately following the vaccination procedure.
  This scale consists of a 10-cm line (0-10 cm or 0-100 mm). The 0-line on the scale indicates "no pain," and the 10-line indicates "unbearable pain." The child is asked to mark the place that expresses the degree of pain. The distance from the point marked by the child to the 0 line is measured to determine the degree of pain. In children aged 8 and above, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is considered the most reliable method.

Trial sites (1)

More Mehmet Akif Ersoy University trials in Turkey

Other trials for the same condition