The Effect of Virtual Reality Goggles and the Kaleidoscope Application During Renal Scintigraphy on Children's Fear and Anxiety Levels

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that play a very important role in the human body. They are located on the right and left sides of the body, in the lower back. Their main function is to filter excess water and waste from the blood and excrete it through urine. Thus, they help maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte balance. They produce hormones that regulate blood pressure. They secrete the hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells. They play an important role in vitamin D metabolism to support bone health. Kidney scintigraphy is an important imaging method used to assess the function and structure of the kidneys. Using a radioactive substance, this test helps to examine the kidneys' blood flow, filtration and urine production. It is used to see how healthy the kidneys are working. It can help identify problems such as a mass or infection in the kidneys. It is used to detect urinary tract blockages caused by stones, tumors or other causes. It is important in patients who have had a kidney transplant to check that the new kidney is working properly. DMSA scintigraphy (Dimercaptosuccinic Acid scintigraphy) is a nuclear medicine imaging method used to assess the function and structural integrity of the kidneys. During imaging, the patient must remain immobile for a certain period of time, which can be difficult for children. Developing effective methods to divert children's attention and facilitate their adaptation to the hospital environment is of great importance in reducing both the comfort of patients and the workload of healthcare professionals. Virtual reality (VR) goggles are a highly effective tool for distraction. Because it engages our senses so intensely, it can cause us to largely ignore what is happening in the environment. VR goggles are very good at minimizing distractions or immersing you in a completely different atmosphere. The kaleidoscope is an impressive tool for diverting attention. Thanks to its mirrors and colored parts, it creates ever-changing and fascinating patterns. The hypnotic effect of the visual flow can relax the mind and help distract attention from stressful elements.