JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Proof-of-concept study to determine the feasibility of incorporating a virtual reality tour for children scheduled to receive radiation therapy. The secondary objective was to qualitatively describe each subject's virtual reality experience.

Objective:

-

Methods:

Children ages 13 or older scheduled to receive proton radiation therapy were included in the study. Subjects watched the virtual reality tour of the radiation therapy facility with a child life therapist experienced in coaching children receiving radiation therapy and completed a survey after the tour.

Results:

Eight subjects consented for participation and 6 completed the virtual reality tour. All of the enrolled patients completed the virtual reality tour successfully. Two subjects did not complete the survey. Two subjects requested to pause the tour to ask questions about the facility. Five subjects said the virtual reality tour was helpful preparation before undergo proton radiation therapy. Subjects stated that the tour was helpful because ‘it showed me what’s to come’ and it was helpful to see ‘what it’s like to lay in the machine.’ One subject said ‘it made me feel less nervous.’ Six subjects stated that they would like to see this type of tour available for other areas of the hospital, such as diagnostic imaging rooms. None of the subjects experienced nausea or vomiting.

Conclusions:

The virtual reality video tour allowed patients to explore the treatment facility in a comfortable environment. Participants expressed that the tour was beneficial and would appreciate seeing other parts of the hospital in this way.