Robotic Therapy for Hospitalized Children
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a cute robotic baby seal named Paro can make physical and occupational therapy more enjoyable and effective for hospitalized children. Researchers aim to determine if Paro can help children feel less anxious, happier, and more motivated during therapy sessions. They also seek to find out if Paro's presence can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression for parents and guardians. Children aged 5-18 staying at the Children's Hospital in Omaha and receiving therapy can participate if they meet certain criteria, such as being awake, alert, and able to communicate. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative therapy methods that could enhance the hospital experience for both children and their families.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It might be best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that the Paro Robot is safe for use in pediatric therapy?
Research shows that the Paro robot, a robotic baby harp seal, is generally safe and well-received by patients. One study with children found that interacting with Paro helped lower their stress and anxiety. Another study demonstrated that using Paro with hospital patients, including those with dementia, was practical and did not cause any negative effects.
These results suggest that Paro is a safe tool for therapy sessions with children. Although specific data on its use in physical or occupational therapy for kids is limited, existing research supports its safety in various settings and with different patient groups.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using the Paro Robot in therapy for hospitalized children because it introduces an interactive, robotic element that can enhance traditional physical and occupational therapy. Unlike standard therapies that rely solely on human interaction and exercises, the Paro Robot provides sensory stimulation and emotional engagement, potentially boosting self-esteem and motivation in young patients. This innovative approach could transform therapy sessions into more engaging and supportive experiences, helping children improve in areas like speech, balance, and memory more effectively.
What evidence suggests that the Paro Robot is effective for reducing anxiety and improving motivation in hospitalized children?
Research has shown that robotic animals, such as the Paro robot, can be as helpful as real animals in therapy, offering more flexibility for different needs. In this trial, some children will receive physical and occupational therapy with the Paro robot. Studies on these robots suggest they can help reduce stress in children during hospital stays. Most research indicates that kids respond well to social robots like Paro during therapy. Specifically, children interacting with Paro have shown more enjoyment and motivation in their sessions. Early findings also suggest that Paro may help kids feel less anxious, potentially making therapy more effective.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Breanna D Hetland, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Nebraska
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 5-18 hospitalized at Children's Hospital and Medical Center in Omaha, NE. They must be awake, alert, able to follow commands and communicate verbally, with an active PT or OT consult request. A parent or guardian needs to be available, and they should not have significant vision/hearing issues or delirium.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants engage in 10-30 minute semi-structured, prescriptive physical and occupational therapy sessions with or without the Paro robot, focusing on speech, balance and endurance, memory, self-esteem, fine motor skills, and sensory stimulation.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including chart reviews for hospital-acquired infections and other health metrics.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Paro Robot
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Nebraska
Lead Sponsor