title: Distraction techniques for children undergoing procedures: a critical review of pediatric research.
abstract: Pediatric patients are often subjected to procedures that can cause pain and anxiety. Although pharmacologic interventions can be used, distraction is a simple and effective technique that directs children's attention away from noxious stimuli. However, there is a multitude of techniques and technologies associated with distraction. Given the range of distraction techniques, the purpose of this article was to provide a critical assessment of the evidence-based literature that can inform clinical practice and future research. Recommendations include greater attention to child preferences and temperament as a means of optimizing outcomes and heightening awareness around child participation in health care decision making.
authors.affiliation: Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. dkoller@ryerson.ca
authors.forename: Donna
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Koller
authors.forename: Ran D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Goldman
mesh_terms: D001007:Anxiety / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005108:Extinction, Psychological; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D009147:Music Therapy / Q000379:methods; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D059408:Pain Management / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000379:methods; D010988:Play and Playthings; D011322:Primary Prevention / Q000379:methods*; D018910:Video Games; D063367:Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy / Q000379:methods