OBJECTIVE: To compare children's reactions during dressing change before and after emotional support by using an instructional therapeutic toy. METHODS: The sample consisted of 34 children who underwent a surgical procedure in a pediatric public hospital in São Paulo City. Data on children's reactions and pain during dressing change were collected before and after the use of the therapeutic toy. RESULTS: Children who had dressing change after the use of therapeutic toy had better adaptation and acceptance of dressing change. In addition, they also had lower pain score. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that therapeutic toy was an effective strategy in reducing frightening, relieving tension, and managing pain in children during dressing change.
Play and playthings; Child; hospitalized; Pain measurement; Pediatric nursing
