With new 3D headsets, kids at the blood collection center dive into fantasy worlds to forget about the needle
A futuristic idea to fight the fear of needles
At the Meyer Pediatric Hospital in Florence, technology meets empathy. Special 3D headsets now help children overcome the fear of blood draws by immersing them in virtual worlds where rabbits chase butterflies or a spaceship needs help landing.
This pilot project, supported by the Meyer Foundation, was launched at the hospital’s Blood Collection Center and might soon be extended to other departments. The immersive software was developed by a tech startup in collaboration with healthcare professionals and even based on feedback from the children themselves.
How the immersive experience works
The center is equipped with 4 VR headsets and tablets. When the child sits at the table, a nurse initiates the virtual game using a joystick. The child’s experience synchronizes visual and tactile stimuli: as the needle touches the skin, the child sees a bunny tapping them in the virtual world—blurring the pain perception.
There’s also a “distraction button” the nurse can press to trigger the most exciting part of the game—right during the injection.
Designed for every child’s needs
The system requires no physical movement—children can interact using only their eyes, ensuring they remain still during the procedure. It’s safe, engaging, and built to accommodate children of different ages and temperaments.
Positive impact after just a few weeks
Initial results are very promising. According to nurse coordinator Sonia Muricci, anxiety levels in kids aged 6–10 dropped significantly after using the headset. Staff members also reported easier management of anxious or non-cooperative children, and even successful draws in situations that would otherwise be difficult.
This new tool joins Meyer’s existing set of distraction methods: clown therapy, music, bubble play, and pet therapy.
Kids’ reactions: joy and gratitude
Children loved the experience. In post-visit questionnaires, they left notes like:
“Thanks for keeping me company!”
“Hi bunnies, it was nice meeting you!”
“I want to see them again!”
and “Hi, I’m 8 and that was super cool!” said little Sasha.
FAQ
1. What are the 3D headsets used at Meyer?
Immersive VR devices that entertain and calm children during blood tests.
2. How does the headset help reduce pain?
It syncs visual and tactile stimuli, confusing pain perception.
3. Who operates the experience?
Specially trained nurses use tablets and joysticks to control it.
4. Do kids need to move?
No, even eye movement is enough to play.
5. What kind of games are included?
Chasing butterflies, building spaceships, and more.
6. Who created the software?
A startup developed it with input from nurses and kids.
7. Is it only used in the blood test center?
Currently yes, but expansion is being considered.
8. What are the benefits for staff?
Less anxiety in kids, smoother and quicker procedures.
9. What other distraction methods are used?
Clown therapy, music, bubbles, and pets.
10. Has it shown proven results?
Yes, anxiety levels dropped, especially in ages 6–10.
Leave a Reply