Schneider, S.M., & Hood, L.E. (2007). Virtual reality: A distraction intervention for chemotherapy. Oncology Nursing Forum, 34, 39–46.

This intervention was a computer-simulated visual and auditory intervention (virtual reality, or VR) with headset and choice of four scenarios during chemotherapy. Patients were randomized to receive VR during their first or second chemotherapy session.

The study reported on a sample of 123 patients receiving chemotherapy for breast, colon, and lung cancers.

One U.S. hospital

A crossover design was used.

• State Anxiety Inventory (SAI)
• Revised Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS)
• Presence Questionnaire
• Evaluation of virtual reality intervention
• Adapted Symptom Distress Scale–2 (ASDS-2)
• ASDS-2, SAI, and PFS after chemotherapy, before leaving clinic, and 48 hours after chemotherapy

There was no statistical difference (main effect) in symptom distress or anxiety (p = 0.15). There was significant crossover effect at time 2, suggesting that VR may be more effective in decreasing distress during the first visit. Significant altered time perception equated to distraction effect of VR.

• The study sample was older and included multiple diagnoses.
• The one-time intervention consisted of a single session of VR and was conducted at a single site.
• No baseline measures were reported.