Use of Virtual Reality Glasses During Healthcare: An Integrative Review.

Abstract

Integrating technology into healthcare services has direct implications for the efficacy and performance of client care. In view of this, the aim was to identify the possibilities of using virtual reality glasses in healthcare. An integrative literature review was conducted in October 2024, searching in MEDLINE, LILACS, BDENF, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Science Direct. Original articles were included without restriction on publication period or language, whereas duplicates and those not addressing the guiding question were excluded. The level of evidence was evaluated following Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt's method. Data were synthesized in tables, figures, and in narrative form. The 47 studies in the final sample were published between 2007 and 2024, with most conducted in Turkey and predominantly clinical trials. Various models of glasses were used, with VRBox being the most cited, and video interventions were prominent. Main focuses of use included areas such as rehabilitation, invasive procedures, preoperative care, obstetrics, examinations, dentistry, and wound care. The use of virtual reality glasses has proven effective for distraction, pain reduction, and anxiety management across various health domains. Experimental studies indicate a high level of scientific evidence, which is essential for evidence-based practices; however, more objective investigations are still needed.