The Effect of Bubble Machine and Cartoon on Pain and Fear

Aim: This study aimed to compare the effects of cartoon-based audiovisual distraction and bubble-machine-based visual distraction on pain and fear during venipuncture in preschool children. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 123 children aged 3-6 years who underwent venipuncture between February and April 2026. Participants were randomly assigned to a cartoon-based audiovisual distraction group (n = 41), a bubble-machine-based visual distraction group (n = 41), or a control group (n = 41). Children in the cartoon group watched Oggy Oggy on a tablet, while those in the bubble-machine group were exposed to bubbles generated by an automated bubble machine during venipuncture. The control group received routine care. Pain and fear were assessed by the children, parents, and nurse using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale and Children's Fear Scale.

Inclusion Criteria: * Participants whose child and parents agreed to participate in the study * Children who had successful phlebotomy on the first attempt Exclusion Criteria: * Children with chronic disease, mental disability, or mental retardation * Children who had taken analgesics in the last 24 hours * Children who were hospitalized * Children who had undergone a surgical procedure * Children who did not have successful phlebotomy on the first attempt