Effectiveness of virtual reality in reducing pain and fear in children with closed reduction applied forearm fractures
Journal of Pediatric Nursing, vol.91, pp.218-229, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 91
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.pedn.2026.07.066
- Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Nursing
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Page Numbers: pp.218-229
- Keywords: Child, Fear, Forearm injuries, Orthopedic, Pain management, Virtual reality
- Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background Painful procedures such as closed reduction of forearm fractures are a major source of procedural pain and fear in children. Virtual reality (VR) has gained attention as a non-pharmacological distraction adjunct to standard care. This study determined the effectiveness of VR in reducing pain and fear in children undergoing closed reduction of forearm fractures. Method A quasi-experimental pre–post test unmatched group design was used in the orthopedics and emergency departments of a training and research hospital between June 2023 and November 2025. Fifty-one children aged 6–12 years scheduled for closed reduction were enrolled (control, n = 26; intervention, n = 25). The intervention group watched age-appropriate 360-degree videos through a VR headset throughout the procedure. Data were collected with the Child Information Form, Child Follow-up Form, Child Fear Scale, and Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale before, during, and after the procedure. Results Mean age was 7.69 ± 1.69 years in the control group and 7.12 ± 1.48 in the intervention group; 53.8% and 60% were male, respectively. VR significantly reduced heart rate, pain, and fear and increased oxygen saturation ( p < 0.001), whereas adverse physiological and psychological changes occurred in the control group during the procedure. Conclusions VR is an effective and feasible non-pharmacological intervention for reducing procedural pain and fear during closed reduction of forearm fractures. Implications to practice VR is low-cost, safe, and easily implemented in routine closed reduction. It may reduce procedural distress, support physiological stability, and improve the care experience of school-age children.