The effect of using eye masks and earplugs on the prevention of delirium and pain in pediatric intensive care patients

This study is a randomised controlled trial designed to investigate the effect of eye mask and earplug use in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) on preventing delirium and pain. The study was conducted at the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of Bursa City Hospital between May 2024 and May 2025. The study sample consisted of 74 patients (37 in the experimental group and 37 in the control group) admitted to the intensive care unit. Data collection tools included the 'Child Demographic Characteristics Form,' the 'Glasgow Coma Scale,' the 'Wong Baker Facial Pain Scale,' and the 'Cornell Paediatric Delirium Assessment Scale.' The data were analysed using SPSS 27 software. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, and percentage distribution were used for descriptive characteristics. The pain level variable was analysed using an independent samples t-test when normal distribution and homogeneity were met, and the Mann-Whitney U test when they were not. A chi-square test was applied for the occurrence of delirium. The results of the statistical analyses revealed that the eye mask and earplugs used in the experimental group had a statistically significant effect on reducing pain (p<0.05). In addition, the use of eye masks and earplugs was found to be effective in preventing the development of delirium; significant differences were found in the comparisons between the 1st and 2nd days and the 1st and 3rd days (p<0.017). In conclusion, the use of eye masks and earplugs was found to be effective in preventing delirium and pain. Therefore, it is recommended that this practice be considered a standard procedure for preventing delirium in paediatric intensive care units.