Effects of Virtual Reality on Anxiety, Stress, and Work Performance in ICU Nurses

Effects on Anxiety, Stress, and Work Performance of Intensive Care Nurses Using an Immersive Virtual Reality Application

Intensive care unit (ICU) nurses often experience high levels of stress and anxiety due to the emotional demands of caring for critically ill patients. These psychological burdens can negatively affect their job performance and the quality of care they provide. Recent studies suggest that immersive virtual reality (IVR) technology may help reduce stress and improve professional performance among healthcare workers. However, no study to date has specifically evaluated the effects of IVR on ICU nurses' anxiety, stress, and job performance.

This study aims to evaluate whether an IVR application can reduce anxiety and stress levels while enhancing the job performance of ICU nurses. By introducing a clinical intervention based on virtual reality, the research seeks to explore its potential as a practical tool in improving nurses' well-being and work effectiveness in high-pressure environments. The findings will contribute to understanding the clinical applicability of IVR as a stress-reduction and performance-enhancement method in intensive care settings.

This study investigates the impact of an immersive virtual reality (IVR) intervention on the anxiety, stress, and professional performance of registered nurses working in intensive care units (ICUs). ICU nurses frequently face emotionally demanding situations, including end-of-life care, which can lead to elevated stress and anxiety levels. These psychological challenges have been associated with decreased job performance and compromised quality of patient care.

Technological innovations, particularly in virtual reality, offer promising solutions for mental health support and professional development in healthcare. IVR has been used successfully in various healthcare settings to reduce stress, improve coping strategies, and enhance performance. Despite this, no study has yet specifically examined its effect on ICU nurses.

In this randomized controlled trial, participants will be assigned to either an intervention group using the IVR application or a control group receiving standard care. The IVR experience is designed to promote relaxation, reduce psychological strain, and reinforce professional competencies through immersive scenarios. Outcome measures will include validated scales for anxiety, stress, and job performance, collected before and after the intervention.

The ultimate goal of this study is to assess the clinical applicability of IVR technology in supporting ICU nurses' mental well-being and work performance, offering a novel approach to workforce resilience in critical care settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Willing to voluntarily participate in the study
• Currently employed as a nurse in the Anesthesia and Reanimation Intensive Care Unit
• Has been working in the unit for at least 3 months
• Able and available to use the virtual reality (VR) application for a minimum of 10 minutes per day
• Willing to use the VR application on 8 to 16 clinical workdays during the 8-week intervention period

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any condition that prevents communication, completing questionnaires, or participating in measurements
• Physical limitations that prevent movement (e.g., amputation, joint restriction)
• Health problems that interfere with VR use, including chronic pain, hearing or vision loss, migraine, vertigo, nausea, epilepsy, claustrophobia, head injuries, or psychiatric treatment