Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the presence of a companion animal on physiological arousal and behavioral distress exhibited by preschool children during a routine physical examination. A within-subject, time-series design was used to study 23 healthy children ages 3 years to 6 years during two physical examinations, with and without a dog. Statistically significant differences were found with greater reductions in subjects' systolic and mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and behavioral distress when the dog was present. Findings support the use of a companion animal in reducing stress experienced by children during a physical examination.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 323-330 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Journal of pediatric nursing |
Volume | 12 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Dec 1997 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics