Eficácia da realidade virtual no manejo da dor pediátrica: contribuições da inovação tecnológica em saúde

Abstract

Assessing and managing pain in the post-operative period is essential, as acute pain, if left untreated, can alter several organic systems. Virtual reality is a promising low-cost tool for pain relief. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of virtual reality in the management of mild to moderate acute pain in patients in the immediate postoperative period. This is a randomized clinical study, carried out in a pediatric hospital in Curitiba. Research participants were randomized and allocated into two groups, and shown a relaxing thematic video and virtual reality. Data were subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Pain reduction provided by virtual reality is statistically significant and superior when compared to the reduction induced by the relaxing thematic video, and can optimize the hospitalization experience, with attention focused on the patient's experience, mitigating side effects related to the use of opioids.