3326 - Patient Education through Virtual Reality: Project Implementation

12:45pm - 02:00pm PT

Hall F

Screen: 7

POSTER

Presenter(s)

Michelle Rokni, MS - Novant Health, Winston-Salem, NC

M. Rokni¹, S. B. Wisnoskie¹, N. Carone¹, S. Cummings¹, C. Hickerson¹, G. Kessler¹, K. Reardon¹, A. Amos², A. Zebrowski³, S. Buchanan⁴, S. Lash¹, C. Henderson¹, and A. H. Baydush¹; ¹Novant Health, Winston-Salem, NC, ²Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, ³University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, ⁴UNC Health, Chapel Hill, NC

Purpose/Objective(s): The aim of this project is to integrate previously developed patient education videos with Virtual Reality (VR) aspects into the clinical radiation treatment workflow at our institution, as part of a clinical trial to test the efficacy of these videos vs our current standard of care. This initiative seeks to provide patients with comprehensive education about radiation therapy, including the simulation and treatment process. The ultimate goal is to improve patient understanding, reduce anxiety, and enhance the overall patient experience through the combination of videos and VR. This abstract outlines the steps taken to successfully implement using these videos in clinical practice and provides guidance for others to consider a similar approach.

Materials/Methods: A multidisciplinary research team was formed, including leads from physics, dosimetry, therapists, nursing, and leadership. The implementation process involved developing research related needs (patient and provider surveys, cybersickness surveys, etc.) and determining the ideal timeline for distribution of the videos themselves. Additionally, strategies for incorporating departmental staff into the workflow were established, including training to assist patients with using the VR system and ensuring seamless integration of this new technology into patient care.

Results: A comprehensive workflow was created for our clinic, which included the development of patient consent forms, pre-consultation surveys, cybersickness assessments, and midway- and end-of-treatment surveys. A standardized system for enrolling patients into the study and coordinating survey distribution was established. Nursing staff received training to assist patients in using the VR system and other necessary video technology to ensure smooth integration and consistent workflow within the clinical environment.

Conclusion: This project successfully developed and streamlined the process of integrating video and VR-based educational material into clinical practice. Future work will focus on assessing the system's impact on patient satisfaction, understanding of treatment, and clinical outcomes. Further research is required to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of VR-based education in improving patient experiences and outcomes in radiation oncology settings.