The Effect of Using Soundproof Nebulizers With Music and a Funny Mask Added to Reduce Children's Anxiety in Medical Procedures: A Randomized Controlled Experimental Study


Sorkun E., AÇIKGÖZ A., Şahin S.

Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice, vol.31, no.5, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 31 Issue: 5
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1111/jep.70244
  • Journal Name: Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, CAB Abstracts, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
  • Keywords: anxiety, atraumatic care, child, experimental study, mask, music, nebulizer
  • Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Introduction: Medical procedures are a common source of anxiety, and nebulized therapy may increase children's anxiety levels. Aims: This study aimed to determine whether using a soundproof nebulizer with music and a funny mask reduces anxiety during nebulized therapy in children aged 3–6 years. Methods: This randomized controlled interventional study included three groups: Experimental Group 1, where a soundproof nebulizer with music and a funny mask was used; Experimental Group 2, where a silent nebulizer without additional features was used; and a Control Group, where a standard nebulizer routinely employed in the clinic was applied. Data were collected using a Descriptive Information Form, the Children's Fear Scale (CFS) and the Children's Emotional Manifestation Scale (CEMS). Results: During the procedure, the Control Group had higher CFS scores than both Experimental Groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.001). Experimental Group 2 showed higher CFS scores than Experimental Group 1 (p < 0.001). Similarly, CEMS scores were higher in the Control Group compared to both experimental groups (p < 0.001). Discussion: The findings indicate that using a soundproof nebulizer combined with music and a funny mask is the most effective method to reduce children's fear during inhalation therapy. Trial Registration: NCT05881941.