A pilot study of distraction for adolescents during allergy testing.
OBJECTIVE
This pilot study describes pain and anxiety associated with allergy testing; tests distraction, specifically self-selected distraction; and examines the relationship between pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction.


METHODS
An experimental design was used with a convenience sample of 32 adolescents from an allergist's office randomly assigned to three groups. Pain was measured by the adolescent pediatric pain tool (APPT) and FACES scale.


RESULTS
No differences in pain ratings were found among the groups. Less pain was associated with lower anxiety and greater engagement with distraction. Greater engagement with distraction occurred with less anxiety.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge about allergy testing pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction can assist nurses in preparing adolescents for this procedure.
Jeffs
Debra Ann
DA
Arkansas Children Hospital, Little Rock, AR, USA. jeffsda@archildrens.org
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D001007:Anxiety / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001638:Bibliotherapy; D002755:Choice Behavior; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008297:Male; D009147:Music Therapy; D009511:New England; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010146:Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012064:Relaxation Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires