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Investigating the effects of augmented reality-based interventions on pediatric patient outcomes in the clinical
Eyşan Hanzade Savaş1, Adnan Batuhan Coşkun2, Erhan Elmaoğlu3
1Independent researcher, Halay St. No: 7, 34740 Istanbul, Türkiye.
Insights
Augmented reality (AR) interventions effectively reduce pediatric distress, pain, and anxiety. This technology improves cooperation and satisfaction in children during healthcare procedures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Healthcare Technology
- Digital Health Interventions
- Patient Experience Enhancement
Background:
- Augmented reality (AR) is emerging as a non-pharmacological tool in pediatric healthcare.
- AR interventions aim to mitigate distress and improve patient outcomes in children.
- Evidence synthesis is needed on AR's effectiveness, feasibility, and usability in pediatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current evidence on augmented reality interventions in pediatric healthcare.
- To evaluate the impact of AR on physical, emotional, and psychological outcomes in children.
- To assess the feasibility and usability of AR-based tools for pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was performed across six major databases up to December 12, 2024.
- Studies evaluating AR interventions for pediatric physical, emotional, or psychological health were included.
- Data extraction and quality appraisal followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and Joanna Briggs Institute tools.
Main Results:
- Fourteen studies involving 1057 children were analyzed across various clinical settings.
- AR interventions demonstrated significant reductions in procedural pain and anxiety.
- Improvements were noted in children's cooperation, emotional comfort, knowledge, and satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Augmented reality interventions show considerable promise for enhancing pediatric patient experiences and outcomes.
- Current evidence suggests AR can improve pain, anxiety, cooperation, and satisfaction in children.
- Further research is warranted due to limitations in sample size and study duration.
Background And Aim:
Augmented reality (AR)-based interventions are increasingly being used in pediatric healthcare settings as non-pharmacological tools to reduce distress and improve patient outcomes. This review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness, feasibility, and usability of AR interventions in improving physical, emotional, and psychological outcomes among pediatric patients.
Methods:
A comprehensive literature search was conducted across six databases-PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL-for studies published up to December 12, 2024. Eligible studies included those evaluating AR-based interventions with outcomes related to physical, emotional, or psychological health. Two reviewers independently conducted data extraction and assessed methodological quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42025638915).
Results:
The review included 14 studies involving 1057 children across diverse clinical settings such as surgery, oncology, dentistry, rehabilitation, and anesthesia induction. AR interventions were associated with reduced procedural pain and anxiety, improved cooperation and emotional comfort, increased knowledge acquisition, and enhanced satisfaction with care.
Conclusion:
AR-based interventions show significant promise in improving pediatric patient experiences and outcomes across a variety of healthcare domains. However, current evidence is limited by small sample sizes, methodological variability, and short-term evaluations.
Implication To Practice:
AR-based interventions can enhance pediatric care by reducing pain and anxiety, improving cooperation, and increasing patient satisfaction. Their integration into clinical routines may support more positive healthcare experiences for children.
