NCT07493018

Effect of Hand Puppet and Squeeze Toys on IV Placement in Pediatric Oncology Patients

The Effect of Hand Puppet and Squeeze Toy Techniques on Fear, Emotional Expression, and Procedure Success During Peripheral IV Catheter Placement in Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 90 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Akdeniz University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 6 Years – 10 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This randomized controlled trial investigates hand puppet and squeeze toy techniques to reduce fear, emotional distress, and procedure time, and improve IV catheter placement success in 90 pediatric hematology-oncology patients (ages 6-10). Participants will be randomized into three groups: hand puppet, squeeze toy, or control. Outcomes include fear, emotional expression, procedure duration, number of attempts, and first-attempt success.

Conditions

• Pediatric Hematology
• Pediatric Oncology

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Performing a Hand Puppet to Music	Children interact with a hand puppet chosen according to their preference during IV catheter placement. The puppet's playful movements and music aim to distract and reduce fear and emotional distress.
OTHER	Hand Squeezing Soft Toy (Squishy)	Children will receive a soft, colorful squeeze toy in their non-procedure hand during IV catheter placement. They will be encouraged to rhythmically squeeze and release the toy, which engages their attention, reduces fear and distress, and helps them keep the procedure hand still. The toy is chosen by the child, hygienically managed, and given as a gift afterward. This simple, low-cost intervention aims to improve cooperation and IV placement success.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-05-01
• Primary completion: 2026-10-01
• Completion: 2026-10-01
• First posted: 2026-03-25
• Last updated: 2026-03-30