Robotic Dog Intervention on Emotional Well-Being and Quality of Life

Pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) experience substantial psychological burden related to intensive treatment, protective isolation, prolonged hospitalization, and immunosuppression. Anxiety, emotional distress, loneliness, and reduced quality of life are common during the post-transplant inpatient period. However, infection control precautions and isolation procedures may limit access to traditional psychosocial support interventions in HSCT settings.

Technology-assisted interventions, particularly social robots, have emerged as promising approaches for supporting emotional well-being in pediatric healthcare environments. AI-powered robotic companion devices may provide interactive engagement, emotional comfort, and opportunities for play during prolonged hospitalization while remaining compatible with infection control requirements.

This pilot randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of an AI-powered robotic dog intervention in improving emotional well-being and quality of life in pediatric patients undergoing HSCT.

Inclusion criteria

• Pediatric patients aged 8-15 years
• Diagnosed with a hematological malignancy and undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
• Hospitalized in a protective isolation room during the post-transplant inpatient period
• Expected to remain hospitalized under isolation for approximately 30 days post-transplant
• Able to understand and respond to Turkish-language self-report questionnaires
• Clinically stable and deemed eligible for participation by the treating clinical team
• Able to interact with the robotic dog at a basic functional level

Exclusion criteria

• Severe cognitive impairment or neurodevelopmental conditions preventing meaningful interaction or self-report
• Acute neurological conditions, delirium, or severe psychiatric crisis (e.g., acute agitation, suicidal ideation)
• Requirement for intensive care, invasive ventilation, or a clinically unstable condition
• Severe visual, hearing, or motor impairments that prevent interaction with the robotic dog
• Additional infection control restrictions prevent the placement or use of the robotic dog in the isolation room
• Anticipated early discharge, transfer, or inability to complete follow-up assessments
• Severe fear, intolerance, or refusal to interact with robotic or electronic devices