The Effect of Cartoon Watching and Distraction Card on Physiologic Parameters and Fear Levels During Inhalation Therapy in Children: A Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE The study was conducted as a randomized controlled study to investigate the effect of cartoon watching and distraction cards on physiologic parameters and fear levels in children with acute bronchitis in the emergency department. METHODS Ninety-nine children with acute bronchitis aged 3-6 years were randomized in the emergency department. The study was conducted with three groups: cartoon group, distraction card group, and the control group. Data were collected using a follow-up form and the Children's Fear Scale. RESULTS The difference between the mean pulse rates of the groups evaluated by an observer nurse was found to be statistically significant. The pulse rates of the cartoon and distraction card groups were lower than in the control group during inhalation therapy (p < 0.05). The difference between the mean fear scores in the cartoon and control groups as evaluated by the observer nurse and the accompanying parent was found to be statistically significant during after inhalation therapy (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION It was observed that watching cartoons during inhalation therapy was more effective in reducing the level of fear in children that distraction card.