Simulated Health Education Measures after Lumbar Disk Herniation Surgery: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Taiwan

Abstract

BackgroundSevere lumbar disc herniation is the main cause of sciatica and lower back pain. After surgery, various factors may impede a patient's self-care ability, recovery status, and lower the quality of life (QOL). Providing appropriate health education to patients is of paramount importance. To accomplish this, we developed a set of innovative measures using virtual reality (VR) for postoperative patients and measured their effectiveness. MethodA convenience sampling method was used for a total of 50 patients from a teaching hospital in northern Taiwan, making up the experimental (VR/simulation health education measures) and control groups (routine care). Data were collected using structured questionnaires. ResultsInnovative integration of VR and simulation used in health management education has significant effects on the physical component score of QOL (p = .002) one month after surgery. Patients receiving such education expressed feeling reassured and more confident to perform daily tasks. ConclusionsHealth education simulation techniques using VR can improve QOL after lumbar disc herniation surgery.