The Effect of Virtual Reality on Pain Management in Children in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review and...

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality interventions in reducing pain and anxiety among children undergoing medical procedures in emergency settings.

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, ERIC, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, identifying 1,216 articles published between 2010 and 2025. Only randomized controlled trials comparing virtual reality interventions with standard care were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by 2 reviewers. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane's Q and I² statistics. Random-effects models were applied, and publication bias was examined using Begg's and Egger's tests.

Nine studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the meta-analysis. The total number of children in the studies was 934; the age range was 2-17 years. Children in the experimental group received virtual reality, while children in the control group received standard care or different distraction techniques. Measurements were based on child self-report, parent or observer report, or all 3. Virtual reality significantly reduced self-, parent-, and observer-reported pain compared with control groups. Anxiety decreased according to parent and observer ratings, while self-reported anxiety showed minimal change.

The use of virtual reality during medical procedures in the emergency department resulted in a reduction in pain levels as reported by children, parents, and observers. Anxiety and fear levels were reduced as reported by parents and observers.