Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong KS(1), Lee A(2), Lui PPP(1), Yip WP(1), Leung LYP(1), Cheung YP(3), Ho NL (3), Wong SH (4), Chan SP(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, (2)Stoma and Wound Care, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, (3) Nursing Service Division, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, (4) Department of Anaesthesia & Operating Theatre Services - Pain Management, Tseung Kwan O Hospital
Introduction :
Virtual Reality has shown potential as a distraction tool in healthcare to reduce anxiety and enhance patient satisfaction during medical procedures. This pilot study evaluates the use of VR in managing anxiety during minor wound procedures with local anesthesia in an Orthopedics and Traumatology ward in TKOH.
Objectives :
The primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of VR in reducing anxiety compared to tablet video and no media intervention. Secondary goals included evaluating patient satisfaction, pain perception, and the feasibility of integrating VR into clinical practice.
Methodology :
A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 59 participants from a male O&T ward, randomized into three groups: VR (n=19), tablet video (n=19), and control (n=21). Participants in the VR and tablet groups viewed a standardized meditation-themed video. Anxiety levels were measured using the Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS), pain using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and patient satisfaction through surveys. Vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate) were recorded pre- and post-procedure. Non-parametric tests were applied for data analysis.
Result & Outcome :
Anxiety levels decreased across all groups from pre- to post-procedure. The VR group showed the largest reduction in SUDS scores, with a mean reduction from 3.26 to 1.53. The tablet group’s scores decreased from 2.68 to 0.74, while the control group’s scores decreased from 3.00 to 1.33. Although all groups demonstrated anxiety reduction trends, statistical significance was not the focus due to the small sample size. Additionally, the VR group achieved the highest patient satisfaction scores, particularly for anxiety management and overall procedural experience. No adverse events or procedure discontinuations were observed. This pilot study demonstrates the potential of VR to reduce anxiety and enhance patient satisfaction during minor wound procedures. While statistical conclusions are limited by the small sample size, the observed trends highlight VR as a feasible and safe complementary tool. Future research with larger sample sizes and risk stratified populations is warranted to explore VR’s broader clinical impact.
