The aim of this study is to determine whether a software virtual reality (VR) program provided during transportation to anesthesia induction reduces anxiety before the procedure, and compliance in pediatric patients. This study aims to measure the anxiety of patients as they arrive before their procedure, when parting from their parents for transportation to the procedure room, and when anesthesia is provided. Compliance during anesthesia induction will also be monitored. Participants will be randomly placed into to one of two groups. Group 1 will receive standard care from a Certified Child Life Specialist prior to their surgery. Group 2 will receive standard care from a Certified Child Life Specialist and distraction with a novel virtual reality software program.
Who can participate
Age range
5 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:
* Ages 5-17 years old.
* Patients undergoing general anesthesia with mask induction for dental or gastrointestinal procedures.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Cognitive impairment that will impact the use of the VR headset or interaction with the game.
* Participants who cannot comfortably wear the VR headset.
* Visual impairment that would hinder use of software program.
* Patients receiving general anesthesia via IV.
* Parent accompanies patient back for anesthesia induction.
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
modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale
Timeframe: Perioperative, transport to operating room, in operating room