Immersive Virtual Reality and Anxiety, Nausea, and Vomiting in Children With Cancer: An RCT.
Cho Lee Wong, Chi Kong Li, Carmen Yip Wing Han Chan et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of immersive virtual reality (IVR) on anxiety, anticipatory nausea, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in pediatric cancer patients aged 6-12 receiving their first chemotherapy. The study found that the IVR group experienced a significant reduction in anxiety and fewer episodes of anticipatory nausea and CINV compared to the control group, with effects increasing over time.
Key findings
- The IVR group showed a significant reduction in anxiety before and after chemotherapy (P < 0.001).
- Fewer episodes of anticipatory nausea were reported in the IVR group at T3 (P < 0.001).
- CINV was significantly lower in the IVR group at T4 (P = 0.03).
- Chemotherapy-induced vomiting was reduced in the IVR group at T2 and T4 (P = 0.003).
Why it matters
The findings highlight the potential of IVR as a non-pharmacological intervention to alleviate anxiety and nausea in pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy, which can improve their overall treatment experience and adherence.