Coloring books in the ER: a simple fix for long waits?
NCT ID NCT05540106
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether giving coloring activities (nature scenes, geometric shapes, word searches, or free drawing) to adults waiting in the emergency department can lower their self-reported pain and anxiety. Researchers will measure changes using standard questionnaires. If effective, this could be a low-cost, low-resource way to improve the ER experience for patients.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
coloring activities (nature scenes, geometric shapes, word searches, or free drawing)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost way to help ER patients feel less anxious and in less pain while they wait.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study (168 participants) testing a short-term activity. The effect may be small or not work for everyone, and it won't replace medical treatment.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Stony Brook University Hospital
RECRUITINGStony Brook, New York, 11794, United States
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