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Desert Dune

VR-ICU

Completed

STUDY OVERVIEW

SUMMARY

VR may be an effective tool to manage pain and anxiety and provide distraction in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting, but we found that its use during extubation had not been expored. This qualitative study focused specifically on the potential use of VR with intubated ICU patients. We interviewed 16 bedside ICU providers after they observed a simulated setup with an intubated mannequin and experienced VR themselves to assess feasibility, workflow considerations, and implementation challenges.

KEY FINDINGS

Providers were generally positive about VR and interested in its use as a form of therapeutic recreation. However, responses suggested that use during extubation would not be feasible due to interference with the procedure, the inconvenience of added set-up time, and potential safety issues. We concluded that successful use depends on clear workflows, staff training, and clear guidelines on identifying appropriate patients.Our findings highlight the importance of involving staff early in design and implementation.

PUBLICATIONS

Garito, I., Lewis-Fung, S., Lawson, B., Gray, H. G., Smith, C., & Appel, L. (2024). VR in ICU care: Provider perspectives. Journal of Medical Extended Reality. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmxr.2023.0007

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