Awe Inducing Elements in Virtual Reality Applications: A Prospective Study of Hospitalized Children

Awe Inducing Elements in Virtual Reality Applications: A Prospective Study of Hospitalized Children

This is an experimental study to evaluate which aspects of virtual reality (VR) software development can be optimized to increase awe in pediatric perioperative patients and their adult caregivers (e.g., parents, guardians)

Hospitalized pediatric patients, especially those undergoing anesthesia and surgery, experience anxiety and fear, resulting in lack of cooperation, withdrawal, and aggression. These reactions delay medical care and negatively impact patient experience.

This is an experimental, prospective study to evaluate which aspects of virtual reality (VR) software development can be optimized to increase awe in pediatric perioperative patients and their adult caregivers. The primary center for this study will be Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford (LPCHS) (located within Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA).

After software development, we will evaluate the awe and engagement of pediatric patients after experiencing the novel virtual reality application.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patient with age range from 6 to 25
• Adult or LAR with age range from 18 to 99
• Able to consent or have parental consent
• in pre-operative holding and inpatient acute care areas of LCPH
• English speaking participants

Exclusion Criteria:

• People who do not consent
• Significant Cognitive Impairment
• History of Severe Motion Sickness
• Visual Problems
• currently have nausea
• history of seizures
• non-english participants