Tech toys tested to calm kids' nerves at the hospital

NCT ID NCT06924814

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study will test whether using technology like virtual reality headsets, tablets with games, or other gadgets can help reduce anxiety and pain in children aged 4 to 17 during minor procedures such as lumbar punctures or heart catheterizations. About 200 kids will be randomly assigned to use a tech distraction or standard care (no tech). Their anxiety and pain levels will be measured before and after the procedure.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

technology-based distractions (VR headsets, AR headsets, haptic devices, tablets with games)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could provide a simple, non-drug way to ease anxiety and pain for children during medical procedures.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage study with no phase, so results are uncertain. The effect may be small or no better than standard care.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

anxiety anxiety disorder Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford

    Palo Alto, California, 94304, United States