Pain Distraction Tool

The Problem

Medical procedures are often unpleasant and traumatic for children. It is well known that distraction and reward can reduce the negative psychological and physical aspects of procedures. Healthcare budgets are often very low for the purchase of specialist toys and tools, which led Caroline Fawcett to develop her own tool for use with children undergoing medical procedures

The Solution

The Pain Distraction Tool was developed by Caroline Fawcett, a play specialist employed by The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The tool is very simple with 6 themed illustrated boards. A spinner is used to select an image, the child is then encouraged to make the sound of the image in order to distract the child from their treatment. At the end of the procedure, the child is rewarded with a ‘Sounds’ certificate.

NHS Innovations North worked with Caroline Fawcett to successfully negotiate a license agreement with TFH Special Needs Toys, a specialist catalogue for toys, tools and equipment.

Benefits to the NHS

The tool can be used by any professional or carer, either during treatment and procedures or during speech and language sessions. The benefits of the tool include reducing stress levels of carers and professionals, but also reducing negative psychological and physical aspects of the procedure for the child.

For further information about this product please contact a member of the team on 0191 5164400 or email enquiry@nhsinnovationsnorth.org.uk

24/Feb/2010

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