Ventriloquist intervention prepared with drama technique in reducing pain, anxiety and fear in children during invasive procedures

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the effects of a ventriloquist nursing intervention, incorporating drama techniques, on pain, anxiety, and fear experienced by children aged 5 to 10 years undergoing painful medical procedures. Methods: This study was designed as a time-series randomized controlled trial. Data were collected from the outpatient units of a Pediatric Hospital in a province in eastern Turkey between 24 May 2023 and 28 October 2023. This study involving a total of 72 children. Pain, anxiety, and fear levels were assessed before, during, and after intravenous cannula insertion. Results: Randomization ensured that both groups had similar demographics, with an average age of 7.50 +/- 1.73 years and an equal distribution of gender. During the painful procedure, it was observed that both groups experienced an increase in pain, anxiety, and fear, though this increase was statistically less significant in the ventriloquist group. Ultimately, in the post-procedure period, children in the ventriloquist group exhibited lower levels of pain, anxiety, and fear compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that ventriloquist nursing interventions, utilizing drama techniques, can effectively reduce pain, anxiety, and fear in children undergoing painful medical procedures.