Effects of reading augmented reality storybook versus normal storybook reading on preoperative fear and anxiety levels of children in the age group of 7-12 years: A randomized controlled trial.

Aim And Objectives: In the preoperative period, non-pharmacological methods such as multimedia applications and visual and audio technological tools are used to reduce children's fear and anxiety levels and to distract their attention to create a more enjoyable experience. One of these innovative technologies having attracted attention recently is augmented reality technology. The study was aimed investigating the effects of reading an augmented reality storybook on fear and anxiety levels of children in the age group of 7-12 years in the preoperative period.

Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 60 children who met the inclusion criteria. Of them, 30 were in the augmented reality story group, and 30 were in the normal story group. Data were collected through the following data collection tools: 'Sociodemographic Information Form', 'Children's Anxiety Meter' and 'Child Fear Scale'. The book "One Child, One Miracle" was used as an intervention tool in the study. The clinical trial registration number of this randomized controlled experimental study is NCT06399016.

Results: In the study, a statistically significant difference and a decrease in the pre-test and post-test fear and anxiety average scores of the children in both groups was observed. The mean fear score of the children in the Augmented reality storybook reading group decreased more than did the score of the children in the normal story reading group.

Conclusions: In order to prevent preoperative fear and anxiety in children staying in pediatric surgery clinics, it is recommended to expand the use of augmented reality storybooks before surgery. Reading stories is an effective, inexpensive and non-pharmacological intervention.