Children’s perception of venipuncture through therapeutic toy

Abstract

Objective: To understand children’s perception of venipuncture through therapeutic toy and how therapeutic toy can contribute to the venipuncture procedure and child-nurse interaction. Methods: This is a study with a qualitative approach. It was held in pediatric nursing, surgery and intensive care sectors of a university hospital in the city of Rio de Janeiro, with seven children between four and 11 years old. It occurred through an audio-recorded interview submitted to thematic analysis. The research was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the co-participating institution, under Opinion 2.544.589. Results: By dramatizing the doll, handling hospital supplies, and deriving the ultimate purpose, this imaginary world full of misconceptions becomes a positive experience for both children and nurses. The interaction through toy allows them to have more clarity about the procedure and greater receptivity to the nursing staff, as well as new procedures that may be performed. Conclusion: This study gave voice to these children as subjects of care, as there is a rupture of the technical-centered vision, favoring children protagonism. This study made it possible to emphasize the importance of incorporating the therapeutic toy in pediatric nursing care, demonstrating its potential therapeutic effect.