Clinical study. The use of an eczema gaming igloo to distract children with eczema from distressing symptoms: a pilot study.

Abstract

Abstract Background Current NICE guidelines cover educational and psychological approaches for treating children with eczema exhibiting scratching behaviours. Eczema management is complex and requires well‐planned care; yet evidence shows children continue to scratch despite active condition management. Aim To evaluate the acceptability of an Eczema Gaming Igloo to relieve distressing symptoms among parents and their children with eczema (age 7-11 years). Methods Parents (n=41) completed observations of their child using the Eczema Igloo. Children (n=6) completed a usability questionnaire and the Children’s Dermatology Life Quality (Qol) Index questionnaire. Online parental questionnaires ascertained acceptability of gaming to reduce scratching. Results Children found Eczema Igloo enjoyable, peaceful, calming, and relaxing. All parents found computer games an acceptable method to reduce child scratching, particularly during evenings. Busy-ness and distraction were seen as beneficial to break the itch/scratch cycle. Conclusions The Eczema Igloo was deemed acceptable, easy to use, calming and enjoyable as distraction from scratching. The study highlighted the negative impact of eczema on child and family QoL and the need for distraction interventions. Declaration of interest: This study was funded via a Higher Education Innovation Funding (HEIF) award.