Acceptability and feasibility of an app to prepare children for a blood test: An exploratory cohort study

Objective: Children report needle procedures as one of their most feared and painful experiences. Negative blood test experiences can lead to lifelong implications. Xploro is an online health information platform (app) that uses age-appropriate self-directed augmented reality (AR) techniques. This study evaluated the acceptability, feasibility and self-reported impact of Xploro on children undergoing a planned blood test. Method: Children aged 6-14 years accessed Xploro at home before attending hospital for a planned blood test. Paper data collection booklets were completed by children, their parents and health professionals. We explored participants' views of using Xploro and the perceived impact on a child's ability to undergo the blood test. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis procedures. Results: Notably, 24 children, 24 parents and 6 health professionals participated. Children (96%; n = 23/24) reported that Xploro was 'fun' and 'easy to use' and helped them have their blood test (94%, n = 17/18), as they 'knew what to expect' and what would help them. Parents reported that the app helped 'open up a dialogue about the blood test' with their child and helped their child 'know what would happen during the blood test' and how to 'stay calm'. Health professionals (n = 6) reported that Xploro helped children access information 'at their leisure at home'. Conclusion: Xploro was reported as being a useful and engaging self-directed child-friendly information app for children having a planned blood test which helped children know what was going to happen and improved their experiences of having a blood test.