The Effects of Two Methods Applied on Pain and Fear During Phlebotomy in Children

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of using an externally vibratingdolphin‐shaped Dolphin massage device and digital storytelling via tablet on pain andfear in children aged 3 to 6 years during blood collection. Method: This randomizedcontrolled trial was conducted with 105 children aged 3‐6 years who visited the pediatricblood collection unit of a training and research hospital between June 2024 and June2025. This study used the CONSORT checklist. After obtaining consent from the child andparent, the children (n=105) were assigned to one of the groups (Dolphin massage devicegroup (n=35), digital storytelling group (n=35), control group (n=35)) using blockrandomization. The children's pain and fear scores were assessed after phlebotomy bytheir parents, the nurse performing the phlebotomy, and the researcher using theWong‐Baker Pain Scale and the Child Fear Scale. The phlebotomy procedure was performed bya single nurse.