Assessment of the Usability/acceptability of the Little Journey App by Parents/guardians/legal Representatives and Children Aged Between 3-12 Years Old Who Have a Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
This study is testing a special app called 'Little Journey' to see how easy and useful it is for children aged 3 to 12 who have autism and are going to hospital. Many children find hospital visits worrying, and this can be even harder for children with autism. The app aims to help children prepare by showing them virtual tours of hospital rooms, cartoon explanations, and games. It also has a new part called 'A Little About Me' which helps hospital staff understand each child better. Researchers want feedback from a small group of children and their parents to make sure the app works well to reduce worries and make hospital experiences smoother.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Going to hospital can be a bit scary for anyone, but it can be especially worrying for children, particularly those with autism. Hospitals are busy places with lots of new sights and sounds, and understanding what's going to happen can be tricky. This can sometimes make children feel more anxious, and some might even need extra help, like calming medicines, to get through their appointments or procedures.
That's where the 'Little Journey' app comes in. It's designed to help children feel more prepared and less anxious about going to hospital. Imagine being able to see inside the operating theatre or the ward waiting room before you even get there, or watching friendly cartoons that explain what a procedure will involve. The app also has fun games and relaxation activities. For parents, it offers useful information like checklists and fasting guides. It's all about making the hospital experience smoother and less stressful for the whole family.
Right now, the app is developing a new section called 'A Little About Me'. This part has quizzes for children to fill in about what they like, how they communicate, and how they feel about hospital. The idea is that this information can help doctors and nurses quickly understand what's important to each child, especially those with autism. This study is asking a small group of children with autism and their parents to try out the app and give their ideas so that this new section can be as helpful as possible for other children in the future.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are testing an app to help children with autism prepare for hospital.
- The 'Little Journey' app aims to reduce anxiety and stress during hospital visits.
- A new part of the app will help hospital staff understand each child's needs better.
- The study wants feedback from children with autism and their parents.
- Your input could help improve hospital experiences for future children.
- Participation involves using the app and sharing your thoughts in an interview.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for a very specific group of children and their parents. To take part, the child must be between 3 and 12 years old and have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (often called ASD). They also need to be a registered patient at Birmingham Children's Hospital and have been to the hospital for a procedure before.
It's important that both the child and their parent or guardian are happy and able to participate. This includes the child being able to use the app and both of you being able to understand written English and give your feedback in English. The study needs to make sure the app can be used by the children it's designed for.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your child aged between 3 and 12 years old?
- Does your child have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
- Is your child a patient at Birmingham Children's Hospital?
- Have you and your child attended hospital for a procedure before?
- Are you both able to understand written English and give verbal feedback in English?
- Are you both happy and able to take part in the study?
What does participation involve?
If you and your child decide to take part, you'll be asked to use the Little Journey app. The study will involve a test scenario where your child tries out the app. Afterwards, you and your child will have a semi-structured interview, which means you'll be asked a series of questions about your experience using the app. This will be an opportunity to share your thoughts and feedback on how easy it was to use and how helpful it felt. The study will take place at Birmingham Children's Hospital. It's a short-term study focused on getting feedback on the app itself, and there are no medications involved or long follow-up periods. The total duration of your participation will likely be one visit for the app testing and interview.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation TrustVerified postcodeBirmingham, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the 'Little Journey' app?
It's an app designed to help children prepare for hospital visits by offering virtual tours, animations, games, and information for parents.
Who can take part in this study?
Children aged 3-12 with autism who are patients at Birmingham Children's Hospital, along with their parents, can take part.
What will we have to do if we join?
You'll use the app in a test scenario and then answer some questions about your experience in an interview.
Will my child get any medicine in this study?
No, this study is about using an app; there are no medicines involved.
How long will it take to participate?
Your participation will likely involve one visit to the hospital for the app testing and interview.
How to find out more
Lucy Cooper
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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