G403(P) Tablet preferences in children and young people

• Published in: Archives of disease in childhood 2014-04, Vol.99 (Suppl 1), p.A168-A168
• Main Authors: Batchelor, HK, Marriott, JF, Venables, RH, Stirling, HF, Callens, C, Hughes, K, Miller, C
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Schools; Young Adults
• ISSN: 0003-9888; 1468-2044
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2014-306237.384

Aims The aim was to determine the optimum size, shape and colour intensity of tablets for children and young people using both images and physical models. Materials and methods This study used photo-realistic life-size 2D images (5 to 20 mm in length) and their corresponding identical physical 3D tablet models to assess the acceptability of tablet size. Exact replicas of tablets ranging in girth from caplet to oval to diamond shaped units were manufactured. These models were coated with three coloured coatings; white, pale lilac and dark purple. The images and models were the basis of a questionnaire administered to children and young people in schools, hospitals and at community events. Results 183 individuals participated in the study; 74 children 6–7 years; 40 children 8–10 years; 40 young people 14–18 years and 29 adults. Most participants accepted a larger tablet size when looking at models compared to images. The largest tablet was the least acceptable as both an image and a physical model (