Enhancing patient experience in the surgical ICU through virtual reality: A pre-post mixed-methods study.

Abstract

Background: Patients in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) often experience psychological stress.

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and potential outcomes of virtual reality (VR) interventions for enhancing patient experience during SICU stay.

Methods: This mixed-method study employed a pre-post-test design complemented by a sequential explanatory approach, conducted from January to December 2023 in the SICU of a hospital in China. Quantitative data (n = 32) were collected using a Visual Analog Scale to assess pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and comfort. Physiological parameters, including blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and oxygen saturation (SpO²) were obtained from a bedside patient monitor. Additionally, self-designed questionnaires were used to evaluate VR acceptance, while the Visually Induced Motion Sickness Susceptibility Questionnaire (VIMSSQ) was used to assess discomfort related to VR interventions. Qualitative data from experimental patients (n = 10) were analyzed through in-depth interviews.

Results: Post-intervention, patients showed significant reductions in pain, fatigue, depression, and anxiety, along with increased comfort levels (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in pre- and post-intervention BP, HR, RR, or SpO². The mean VR acceptance score was 3.90±0.62, with minimal discomfort reported. Qualitative analysis revealed four themes: positive patient attitude toward VR, benefits of VR for well-being, multiple influences on VR implementation, and implementation of VR with safety assurance.

Conclusion: VR interventions significantly reduced psychological stress and improved comfort in SICU patients, with high acceptance and minimal side effects. Further research is needed to optimize VR use in this setting.