Virtual reality refers to a computer-simulated environment with sensual stimuli and interactive software and hardware that can create the feeling of physical presence in an imaginary environment. Virtual reality has been evaluated as a distractive intervention to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in patients with cancer and for its effect on anxiety.
Thrane, S. (2013). Effectiveness of integrative modalities for pain and anxiety in children and adolescents with cancer: A systematic review. Journal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing, 30, 320–332.
PHASE OF CARE: Multiple phases of care
APPLICATIONS: Pediatrics
Integrative interventions may be very effective for pain and anxiety in children undergoing cancer treatment. Integrative modalities, however, warrant further study with larger sample sizes to better determine their effectiveness in this population.
This study provided some evidence that complementary modalities can help children undergoing cancer treatment or painful procedures. The usefulness of a particular method should be further examined.
Li, W.H., Chung, J.O., & Ho, E.K. (2011). The effectiveness of therapeutic play, using virtual reality computer games, in promoting the psychological well-being of children hospitalised with cancer. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 20, 2135–2143.
To examine the effectiveness of play, consisting of virtual reality computer games, in reducing anxiety and symptoms of depression in children hospitalized for cancer treatment
Children hospitalized for cancer treatment were invited to participate in the study. Patients received 30 minutes of a play intervention, consisting of virtual reality gaming, five days per week. Play was in a small-group setting that included no more than four patients. A historical comparison group was used in the study. Study measures were obtained at hospital admission and at day 7.
Prospective, single-blind trial with historical control comparison
ANOVA showed a main effect for time, suggesting significantly lower anxiety and depression symptoms in the group that participated in the play intervention. There were no significant differences in baseline scores between groups. In both groups, anxiety scores declined between baseline and day 7.
Play involving virtual reality may reduce symptoms of depression in children hospitalized for cancer treatment.
Findings suggest that use of virtual reality play may help pediatric inpatients being treated for cancer. Further well-designed research in this area is warranted. It is unclear if virtual reality is more effective than other means of distraction.
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.
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.