JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The Domestic Abuse Plan and Strategic Direction for Sexual Assault and Abuse Services set out a stronger system, prioritising the improvement of healthcare staff’s ability to identify and refer domestic abuse and sexual violence victim/survivors, as key areas for supporting workforce development. 

Objective:

The Microsoft HoloLens 2 is an augmented reality headset that projects holographic patients (HoloPatients) into the classroom. This evaluation explored potential uses of the HoloPatients in domestic abuse and sexual violence training, as a potential survivor-centred educational initiative. 

Methods:

In this qualitative feasibility study, frontline staff and community stakeholders from the domestic abuse, social care and law enforcement sectors were invited on three separate occasions (n=14, 12, 22) to a HoloLens demonstration which displayed nine patients. Participant feedback was obtained using post-evaluation surveys.

Results:

Survey data was analysed thematically. The HoloPatient was described as a ‘realistic’, 'adjustable’ tool which ‘creates a safe learning environment’. Uses include ‘pre-exposure preparation’ by ‘improving communication’ with the use of victim/survivor scripts. Identified as a suitable tool for workers inside and outside healthcare, including social care and law enforcement.

Conclusions:

The HoloPatient acts as a low risk, adaptable tool, feasible for trainees to develop skills in a safe environment. This study demonstrates that professionals perceived the HoloLens as an innovative means to amplify the lived experience voice. Further research will evaluate this additional impact on trainees’ confidence and responses to victim/survivors disclosing domestic abuse and sexual violence within different disciplines, to drive improved outcomes.