Say hello to my little friend! Taking perspective on the use of social robots for hospitalized children.

Social robots are increasingly applied in healthcare given their wide range of applications. This study investigates the advantages and disadvantages of employing a social robot in the daily care for hospitalized children. We captured the opinions of healthcare professionals, patients, and parents regarding the use of such a robot. Our results show that a social robot can serve multiple purposes like being a companion to provide comfort, to reduce anxiety and pain, to increase motivation and joy, and also to teach and coach.