GLOWING STARS: Improving the NHS hospital experience of children (aged 4-11) having an MRI scan using a Digital app with Augmented Reality/Avatar, and Gamification

Purpose: Children undergoing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) often experience anticipatory anxiety, which can lead to distress, rescheduled scans, or sedation. This study evaluated the acceptability and impact of Xploro, a digital interactive app designed to improve children’s understanding of MRI procedures and reduce anxiety. Design/methodology/approach: The GLOWING STARS study used a before-and-after design. Children aged 4–11 attending diagnostic MRI scans in secondary care paediatric NHS Trusts accessed Xploro one-to-one on the day of their appointment. Children and parents/caregivers completed paper proformas assessing perceived knowledge and emotional responses before and after using the app. Qualitative data were analysed thematically, and quantitative data summarised descriptively. Findings: The study indicated that Xploro was highly acceptable and effective in enhancing procedural understanding, improving preparation, and increasing emotional security before MRI scans, especially for children aged 7 to 11. This study is the first to involve children aged 4–6 years using the Xploro digital interactive intervention for MRI preparation, and the first to deliver Xploro on-site at the ANONYMISED hospital NHS Trust. This study provides valuable evidence guiding recommendations for the development of digital interventions for children under 7 years old (~3-6).