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A Pilot Study of Distraction for Adolescents During Allergy Testing
Author(s) -
Jeffs Debra Ann
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
journal for specialists in pediatric nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.499
H-Index - 38
eISSN - 1744-6155
pISSN - 1539-0136
DOI - 10.1111/j.1744-6155.2007.00110.x
Subject(s) - distraction , anxiety , medicine , clinical psychology , physical therapy , psychology , psychiatry , neuroscience
PURPOSE. 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.DESIGN AND 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.PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Knowledge about allergy testing pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction can assist nurses in preparing adolescents for this procedure.