Evaluating the efficacy of a smartphone application in reducing preoperative anxiety in children: A randomised controlled trial.

Abstract

Background and aims: Preoperative anxiety is a common issue in paediatric patients, which can negatively impact perioperative outcomes. While various interventions have been explored, the use of smartphone applications (apps) remains underinvestigated. This study aims to evaluate whether a specific smartphone app offering video-based tools can effectively alleviate perioperative anxiety in children.

Methods: This study involved 104 children, aged 4-10 years, scheduled for otorhinolaryngology surgery, who were randomly allocated into two groups: Group C (standard care) and Group MP (provided with access to the smartphone app). Anxiety levels were evaluated at five specific time points using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale-Short Form: during the pre-anaesthesia consultation on the day before surgery, upon arrival in the preoperative holding area, at the moment of parental separation when transitioning to the operating room, after entering the operating room and immediately before anaesthesia induction. Guardian anxiety was assessed at the first three time points using a visual analogue scale to better understand family dynamics during the perioperative period. In addition, the cooperation of paediatric patients during mask induction for anaesthesia was evaluated.

Results: Compared to the Group C, children in Group MP showed significantly reduced anxiety levels before anaesthesia induction (median: 34.4 versus 57.3, P = 0.012). The anxiety level of the guardian at separation was lower in Group MP (median: 3.0 versus 5.0, P = 0.013). Patients also showed improved cooperation during mask induction for anaesthesia (P = 0.001).

Conclusion: A smartphone app with video tools may effectively reduce perioperative anxiety in children and their guardians and enhance their cooperation during mask induction for anaesthesia.