This study evaluated a smart phone virtual reality (VR) to manage pediatric burn dressing pain. A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 90 patients (6-17 years). Active VR participants played the game, passive VR group were immersed in the same VR without interactions, and a standard care group served as the control. One researcher administered VR and observed pain while another researcher administered post-trial survey that measured child's perceived pain and VR experience. Nurses were asked to report the clinical utility.
Who can participate
Age range
6 Years – 17 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* children age 6-17 years (inclusive)
* admitted or seen in the outpatient clinic for a burn injury
* spoke English as primary language
Exclusion Criteria:
* a severe burn on the face or head that prevented the utilization of the VR
* cognitive or motor impairment that prevented valid administration of study measures
* visual or hearing impairments that prevented interaction with the VR environment
* did not have a legal guardian present to give consent
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Observed pain
Timeframe: During outpatient burn dressing change, on average lasting about 15 minutes.
2
Patient self-reported pain
Timeframe: During outpatient burn dressing change, on average lasting about 15 minutes.