Clinical Research Directory

Healing Through Play

Wound dressing is a common procedure for children with injuries or wounds. The procedure can cause pain, fear, and anxiety. Children may also experience changes in heart rate and breathing when they feel distressed. Finding simple ways to help children cope with wound dressing may improve their experience of care. This study examined changes in pain, anxiety, and physiological responses associated with playing interactive digital games during wound dressing. The study included 60 children aged 6-12 years who received wound dressing at the surgical department of Souad Kafafi University Hospital in 6th of October City, Egypt. Each child selected an age-appropriate smartphone game and began playing approximately 1-2 minutes before wound dressing. The child continued playing throughout the procedure. Pain and anxiety were assessed, and physiological measurements, including pulse rate, breathing rate, and oxygen saturation, were recorded. The time required to complete wound dressing was also documented. Measurements taken before and after the intervention were compared to examine changes associated with the use of digital games. The study aimed to determine whether interactive games could be a practical, child-friendly distraction to help children cope with pain and anxiety during wound dressing. The findings may help nurses and other healthcare professionals consider the role of interactive digital games in pediatric wound care. Because the study used a single-group design without a separate control group, changes observed after the intervention cannot be attributed to the games alone.