Blood Quest

1 Nov 2016, 3:58 p.m.

Photo of a patient using the Blood Quest iPad App, November 2016

GOSH Arts and ORCHID (Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children’s Health, Illness and Disability) have worked with patients, artists and health creatives to develop Blood Quest, an app that helps inform, entertain and distract children before and during their blood tests.

In the app you can find out more about your blood — play the Blood Quest game and take part in a quiz about animals and their hearts.

Research has shown distraction and preparation can reduce children’s anxiety before and during procedures such as venepuncture. The app was developed from creative workshops and feedback with GOSH patients, and features art work by illustrator Sister Arrow, which is designed to appeal to a broad age range.

Blood Quest can be downloaded from the Apple app store and on Trust ipads from the GOSH app store.

As part of this project ORCHID is gathering feedback on the app. If you would like to get involved in this evaluation please contact us at gosharts@gosh.nhs.uk

New research analyses key immune cell

A new study led by researchers at University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health has found that women have a higher proportion of key immune cells between puberty and menopause.

Say thank you to a nurse that's helped you

The DAISY Award is an international recognition programme that honours and celebrates the incredible work of nurses and midwives. You can nominate a registered nurse for three different categories - here's how.

First patient treated with groundbreaking gene therapy trial

A baby boy born with a rare condition has become the first in the world to be treated with a new, potentially lifechanging, investigational gene therapy on a clinical trial at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).

Professor Darren Hargrave appointed NIHR Senior Investigator

We’re delighted to announce that Professor Darren Hargrave has been named as a NIHR Senior Investigator in this year’s prestigious awards list.