393 - Improving Pediatric Patient Behavior Through Video Modeling

Improving Pediatric Patient Behavior Through Video Modeling

Pouyafar K, Villanueva T, Best E, Feldman L

New York University College of Dentistry, New York, NY

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to assess whether video modeling of a dental exam will help improve pediatric patient behavior during a comprehensive examination.

Methods:

This study is a double-blinded randomized control trial. Pediatric patients scheduled for comprehensive exams were randomly assigned to the experimental group or control group using an automated randomization tool. The experimental group received a video of a comprehensive dental exam, which models the appointment experience upon entering the clinic building. The patients in the control group received an animated video of similar length, unrelated to dentistry. Parents were requested to watch the videos with their children at home 24-48 hours prior to their dental appointment. During their comprehensive dental appointment, a calibrated study team member assessed the patient’s behavior using a modified behavior rating scale.

Results:

From October 2021 through March 2022, 89 patients were scheduled with the study team. Consent was obtained though verbal communication prior to the appointment for 53 of the scheduled patients. Of these patients,18 patients were not interested in learning about the study, 17 patients were interested in the study but did not meet the inclusion criteria, and 18 patients were emailed the informed consent form. Complete data was obtained for 3 patients only.

Conclusions:

Due to the low number of 3 patients with complete data, statistical analysis could not be completed. The video created for this study may be used in future studies, as well as a general behavior management tool for the pediatric department at NYU College of Dentistry. Should the study be extended in the future, improvements can be made by, scheduling more research participants to alleviate the scheduling constraints, communicating clear instructions with the front desk schedulers and checking in with them routinely throughout the study, screening patients at the time their appointment is created, reducing the number of steps or emails sent to parents, and finally, providing incentives for the patients and parents.