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A pilot study of distraction for adolescents during allergy testing.

Jeffs DA

Arkansas Children Hospital, Little Rock, AR, USA. jeffsda@archildrens.org

PURPOSE. This pilot study describes pain and anxiety associated with allergy testing; tests distraction, specifically self-selected distraction; and examines the relationship between pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction. DESIGN AND METHODS. An experimental design was used with a convenience sample of 32 adolescents from an allergist's office randomly assigned to three groups. Pain was measured by the adolescent pediatric pain tool (APPT) and FACES scale. RESULTS. No differences in pain ratings were found among the groups. Less pain was associated with lower anxiety and greater engagement with distraction. Greater engagement with distraction occurred with less anxiety. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Knowledge about allergy testing pain, anxiety, and engagement with distraction can assist nurses in preparing adolescents for this procedure.

Published 27 June 2007 in J Spec Pediatr Nurs, 12(3): 170-85.
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