The effects of the presence of a companion animal on physiological arousal and behavioral distress in children during a physical examination.

S. L. Nagengast, M. M. Baun, M. Megel, J. M. Leibowitz

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

152 Scopus citations

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 languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)323-330
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of pediatric nursing
Volume12
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1997
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics

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