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The 'Jedward' versus the 'Mohawk': a prospective study on a paediatric distraction technique
Eoin Fogarty1, Eilis Dunning, Stanley Koe
1Paediatric Emergency Department, Tallaght Hospital, , Dublin, Ireland.
Emergency Medicine Journal : EMJ
|May 1, 2013
Summary
A hospital glove balloon with a face drawn on it can effectively distract children during acute injuries. The "Jedward" style face proved more engaging for pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Child Psychology
- Medical Device Innovation
Background:
- Distraction techniques are crucial for managing pediatric acute injuries.
- Standard hospital gloves offer a readily available resource for creative interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a glove balloon as a distraction tool for children with acute injuries.
- To determine the preferred orientation of the drawn face on the glove balloon.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving children aged 2-8 years presenting with acute injuries.
- Children were offered a choice between two glove balloons with faces drawn in different styles ('Jedward' and 'Mohawk').
Main Results:
- 136 out of 149 children chose to interact with a glove balloon.
- The 'Jedward' style glove was preferred by 75 children, compared to 61 for the 'Mohawk' style.
Conclusions:
- An inflated hospital glove with a drawn face serves as an effective distraction method for pediatric acute injuries.
- The 'Jedward' style face is recommended for optimal engagement and distraction in children.
