Can a VR headset beat numbing cream for Children's needle pain?
NCT ID NCT07763132
First seen Aug 13, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial tests whether virtual reality can reduce pain during blood draws in children aged 3 to 15. It compares three approaches: VR distraction with a headset showing a wildlife video, topical numbing cream (EMLA), and standard care. Pain is measured right after the procedure using a simple faces scale. The goal is to see if VR offers a better, drug-free way to ease needle-related discomfort.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Virtual reality distraction using a VR headset, compared with topical lidocaine-prilocaine cream (EMLA) and standard care.
- What this could lead to
- If VR works well, it could offer a drug-free, needle-free way to reduce pain and anxiety for children during blood draws and similar procedures.
- What could go wrong
- The trial is relatively small and early, and VR may not outperform the numbing cream or standard care. Some children may not tolerate the headset, and results may not apply to all settings.
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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
Locations
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Krajska zdravotni, a.s. - Masarykova nemocnice v Usti nad Labem
RECRUITINGÚstí nad Labem, Ústí nad Labem Region, 40011, Czechia
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