Impact of video games during circumcision on children's pain, anxiety, and physiological responses: A quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Introduction

Children require extra care and attention during healthcare procedures. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to implement appropriate interventions to manage the negative effects of pain and anxiety that may arise in medical settings.

Materials and methods

This quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study aimed to determine the effect of video games played during circumcision on children's pain, anxiety, and physiological parameters. The study population consisted of children aged 6–12 years who were scheduled to undergo circumcision with local anesthesia in a private Pediatric Surgery Clinic. The study was completed with a total of 42 children. Data were collected using a parental information form, a physiological measurement chart, the Faces Pain Scale-Revised (FPS-R), and the Children's Emotional Manifestation Scale (CEMS). Assessments were conducted three times: before the procedure, during the procedure, and at the end of the procedure. Statistical analyses included frequency (n), percentage (%), and mean values. The Friedman test was used to determine differences between measurements.

Results

The mean age of the children in the study was 7.33 ± 1.20 years. Heart rate and respiratory rate significantly decreased in the second and third assessments compared to the first measurement (p < .05). The FPS-R scores in the second and third assessments were significantly lower compared to the first assessment. Similarly, CEMS scores in the second and third assessments were significantly lower than in the first assessment (p < .05).

Conclusion and recommendations

The use of video games during circumcision provides a novel, easily accessible, and cost-effective intervention to manage pain, anxiety, and the physiological effects of stress in children. Additionally, it facilitates the safe completion of the procedure.