Isr Med Assoc J
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Medical Clowns and Cortisol levels in Children Undergoing Venipuncture in the Emergency Department: A Pilot Study.
Medical clowns are increasingly used for diminishing pain and anxiety during painful procedures being performed on children in the hospital setting. Cortisol levels rise as a response to emotional distress. ⋯ In this pilot study, medical clowns reduced the distress from venipuncture in children. No effect on cortisol levels was observed.