The Effect of Interactive Robot on Pre-operative Anxiety and Fear of Children

The use of interactive robots can be preferred as a remarkable method of communication with hospitalized children. In this way, it will be easier for the children to understand the procedure and they will be able to communicate easily with healthcare professionals. Children may develop a sense of control and the level of anxiety and fear they experience may decrease when they interact with robots. It is reported in the literature that children show more interest in robots than they do in adults. In addition, children see social robots as living creatures, not as devices, and children who spend time with them for a long time adopt them as friends. In a study, a social humanoid robot was used to prepare children aged 7-12 (n = 11) regarding the cancer diagnosis process and interventional procedures. According to the results of the study, the children's stress, depression, and anger during the treatment decreased significantly. Interactive robots positively affect postoperative mobilization in children undergoing day surgery and reduce the anxiety level of children before mobilization. As a result, it may be easier for children to cope with stress with the use of interactive and humanoid robots. Also, interactive robots can facilitate cooperation between the child and the nurse by playing an intermediary role in communication with children. Determining the effects of interactive robots on children by using them before the surgical procedure is important to ensure the active participation of children in the surgical process in pediatric surgery clinics. It is thought that this research is important in terms of interventions which appropriate to the supportive care role of nurses and will contribute to the literature.