A Software-Based Observational Coding Method for Evaluating Pediatric Dental Anxiety

Allen R. Rapolla II: A SOFTWARE-BASED OBSERVATIONAL CODING METHOD FOR EVALUATING PEDIATRIC DENTAL ANXIETY(Under the direction of Laura Jacox)Patients troubled by dental anxiety often exhibit disruptive behavior during appointments and avoid routine care, leading to adverse outcomes and reduced quality of life. Use of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) in pediatric dental populations holds promise for behavior management and reducing anxiety and pain perception. Our aim is to develop and validate an observation-based assessment scale that utilizes state-of-the-art coding software (Noldus) and can incorporate objective metrics of stress, to objectively evaluate AAT. Data were collected from a pilot trial on use of AAT in pediatric dentistry. Enrolled subjects (N=16, age 7-13) were assigned to AAT or an active control prior to care. Patients received operative treatment while having video data collected. A code book, behavioral scale and gold standard video were developed with Noldus Software, under supervision of a behavioral research expert. Published scales were referenced in defining initial codes, which were iteratively revised over 5 videos, until investigators confirmed the code book. Videos were analyzed by one blinded, calibrated judge. Preliminary results indicate adequate inter-and intra-examiner agreement for coding anxiety measures in videos of pediatric dental procedures. Though validation is ongoing, data are encouraging for successful development of an objective, observational code book and scale for pediatric dental procedures.