JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Virtual Reality (VR) technology is a powerful tool for augmenting patient experience in pediatric settings. Incorporating the needs and values of stakeholders in the design of VR apps in healthcare can contribute to better outcomes and meaningful experiences for patients.

Objective:

This study follows a multi-perspective approach to investigate how future VR apps can be designed to improve the periprocedural experiences of children and adolescents, particularly those with severe anxieties.

Methods:

This study conducted research with clinicians through a focus group (n=4) and survey (n=56). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with children and adolescents in an immunization clinic (n=3) and perioperative setting (n=65) and with parents and carers in the immunization clinic (n=3) and perioperative setting (n=35).

Results:

Qualitative data was examined to determine the experience needs, psychological needs, intervention strategies and design strategies that may contribute to better experiences for children in three age groups of 4-7, 8-11 and 12-17 years old. Quantitative data was used to identify areas of priority for future VR interventions.

Conclusions:

A set of ten design considerations are proposed for creating future VR experiences for pediatric patients. Enhancing patient experience may be achieved by combining multiple VR solutions through a holistic approach considering the roles of clinicians and carers and the temporality of the patient’s experience. This involves delivering personalized solutions to fulfill the needs of pediatric patients before and during the medical procedure. In particular, communication should be placed at the center of pre-procedure solutions while emotional goals can be embedded into a procedure-focused VR app to help patients shift their focus in a meaningful way to build skills to manage their anxiety.