2623 - OncoVR: Radiation Therapists' Perspective on the Effectiveness of an Immersive Virtual Reality Education Module for Reducing Anxiety in Pediatric Patients

OncoVR: Radiation Therapists’ Perspectives on the Effectiveness of an Immersive Virtual Reality Education Module for Reducing Anxiety in Pediatric Patients.

Purpose/Objective(s):  

Elevated anxiety is prevalent among pediatric cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment at our institution. A series of immersive virtual reality (IVR) modules with interactive elements were developed at our institution. Prior to its implementation, a phase I study was conducted to evaluate radiation therapists’ (RTTs) perceptions of the clinical effectiveness and implications of IVR. This study hypothesised that RTTs would perceive IVR as an effective and feasible intervention in reducing anxiety in pediatric patients and their caregivers.

Materials/Methods:  

The IVR modules were developed with an emphasis on patient engagement, education and realism. The modules, CT Simulation, Photon and Proton treatment, incorporated a range of animated and interactive features to facilitate user engagement and an immersive experience. RTTs experience and feedback were captured via a 20-item questionnaire with thematic analysis further conducted through a focus group discussion (FDG). Cronbach’s α was then computed to evaluate the internal consistency of the questionnaire.

Results:   

29 RTTs participated in the IVR questionnaire with high patient education materials assessment tools (PEMAT) (>95%) and abbreviated acceptability rating profile (AARP) scores reported in table 1. Overall, the IVR was perceived positively with a high understandability, actionability and acceptability, supported by strong internal consistency of the acceptability scale (Table 1). Qualitative FGD data were organized into two overarching themes – enabling and contextual factors. Collectively, analysis of the identified sub-themes highlighted a coherent progression from user experiences to potential constraints and prospective recommendations, following the systematic coding and thematic organization of the FGD data.

Conclusion:   

Findings suggest that OncoVR is highly acceptable. Quantitative findings indicated excellent quality and acceptability while qualitative insights valued realism and anxiety-reducing potential. Although practical constraints such as inclusivity of age-specific cognitive needs of children with physical limitations surfaced, RTTs identified IVR as a promising adjunct to conventional patient education materials. This phase I study provided essential insights into the perceived clinical value of IVR to reduce anxiety levels in pediatric patients, informing future iterative development. 

Table 1: Results of PEMAT-AV and AARP.