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The effect of using tablet computer on surgical stress: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial
Kubra Evren Sahin1, Aytac Karkiner2
1Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, University of Health Sciences, Dr. Behcet Uz Child Disease and Pediatric Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey.
Journal of Pediatric Urology
|March 30, 2022
Summary
Tablet computers effectively reduce preoperative anxiety in pediatric surgical patients, improving comfort during separation and mask application. This method offers a valuable alternative to midazolam for managing anxiety in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Anesthesiology
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Preoperative anxiety is common in pediatric surgical patients.
- Anxiety can negatively impact patient experience and recovery.
- Effective anxiety management strategies are crucial for pediatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of tablet computer use on preoperative anxiety in children undergoing elective surgery.
- To compare the efficacy of tablet computers versus midazolam in reducing anxiety.
- To assess the impact on separation anxiety and mask acceptance.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial involving 300 pediatric patients (ages 4-10).
- Patients were randomized into Midazolam, Tablet Computer, or Control groups.
- Anxiety assessed using modified-Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (mYPAS), Parental Separation Anxiety Scale (PSAS), and Mask Acceptance Scale (MAS).
Main Results:
- Tablet use significantly reduced anxiety scores compared to control (p < 0.001).
- Midazolam showed the greatest ease of separation and mask acceptance.
- Tablet computers were more effective than control in improving comfort and reducing anxiety.
- Post-hospitalization behavior scores were significantly higher in the control group.
Conclusions:
- Tablet-based games are effective in improving pediatric patients' comfort preoperatively.
- Both midazolam and tablet computers reduce anxiety, with midazolam offering slightly better outcomes for separation and mask acceptance.
- Tablet computers provide a viable, non-pharmacological option for managing preoperative anxiety in children.
