Acoustic comfort in pediatric noninvasive exam: A study of bedside renal sonography for children

Pediatric renal sonography is a non-radiation exposure and non-invasive procedure to evaluate kidneys and urinary tract structures. It is frequently performed in clinics and wards. Although there is no physical discomfort during ultrasounds, children would still experience agitation or crying due to unfamiliarity with medical environment. To provide comfortable medical experience and improve the quality of healthcare, we design a renal sonography process integrated with acoustic components specific for children. Patients under 7 years old are divided into three groups, under the age of 1, 1–3, and above 3. Pre-recorded music with nursery rhymes and fairy tales is played. Two time points are designed to evaluate acoustic integrated effect, along with preparing phase or real time of sonography starting. Data are collected from three timeframes: before, during, and after the exam. Physiological data will include heart rate, respiratory rate, and O2 saturation. Emotional behavior, such as agitation, crying, and smiling, will be recorded. This study will establish specific acoustic components and suitable intervention timeframe for children of different age groups. By having acoustic comfort, we hope children will have good experiences during sonography exam. As a result, the quality of medical examination and children wellbeing can be achieved.