Cognitive and physiological evaluation of virtual reality training in nursing

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) has increasingly been used in several disciplines, including nursing, a profession in high demand that is now facing a shortage. This study investigated the effectiveness and efficacy of VR hybrid training over traditional training (TR) methods. Sixteen college students were recruited and randomly assigned to get 100% TR or 50% TR and 50% VR (VR50). Participants attended a three-day program with a registered nurse, consisting of lectures and practical lab sessions. Participants’ performance, training time, cognitive development, physical development, mental workload, user experience, Students’ Satisfaction and Self-Confidence, and team learning were evaluated. The results showed that the VR50 performed as well as, and sometimes even better than the TR group (p-value = 0.043). VR50 group significantly had higher cognitive development and found VR easy to use and attractive (p-value < 0.05). VR-integrated training makes nurses’ training more affordable and accessible while providing instant and relevant feedback. Practitioner Summary: This study assessed employment-integrated virtual training in nursing, particularly peri-care, by comparing the performance, cognitive, physical, and mental workload of traditional and integrated VR training groups. The findings of this study provide significant support for incorporating VR training into educational settings.