Robot Rehab: AAI With Robot During Inpatient Pediatric Rehab

In the researchers' words

The purpose of this study is to: Aim 1: Evaluate the feasibility \[consent and refusal rates, attrition rates, length, and number of completed therapy sessions\], and acceptability \[interviews with children and guardians, overall patient and guardian satisfaction\] during inpatient physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) sessions. Hypothesis: Animal-assisted interaction (AAI) with Paro, a robotic baby harp seal, during pediatric inpatient PT/OT sessions will be feasible and acceptable. Aim 2: Assess preliminary efficacy of AAI during PT/OT sessions with Paro on behavior (anxiety and affect) and motivation to participate in rehabilitation in hospitalized children. Hypothesis: Children who use Paro will demonstrate less anxiety, more positive affect, and greater motivation to participate in therapy than those who do not use Paro. Aim 3: Test the stress, anxiety, and depression levels of parents/guardians of children who use Paro inpatient physical and occupational therapy sessions. Hypothesis: In addition, parents and guardians of children that use Paro will report less stress, anxiety, and depression compared to parents/guardians of children that do not use Paro.