The 'Jedward' versus the 'Mohawk': a prospective study on a paediatric distraction technique. Issue 4 (29th April 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fogarty, Eoin; Dunning, Eilis; Koe, Stanley; Bolger, Turlough; Martin, Ciara
• Is Part Of: Emergency medicine journal. Volume 31:Issue 4(2014)
• Page Start: 327
• Page End: 328
• Publication Date: 2013-04-29
• Subjects: paediatrics -- psychology, patient support; Emergency medicine -- Periodicals; 616.02505
• DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2013-202337
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1472-0205

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To examine the use of a standard hospital glove, inflated as a balloon with a face drawn on it, as a distraction technique in children with an acute injury. Methods: We designed a study to assess the 'best' way to orientate the glove when drawing a face on it. A prospective study was performed in the authors' institution, where all children between the ages of 2 and 8 years presenting during the study period were given the option of playing with one of two glove balloons with a face drawn on it in two different ways. Results: 149 paediatric patients were assessed, of whom 136 picked a glove, 75 picked the 'Jedward' version and 61 the 'Mohawk' version. Conclusions: A standard hospital glove, inflated as a balloon with a face drawn on it, is a useful distraction for children with an acute injury. The face drawn should be drawn 'Jedward' style.