Schneider, S. M., Ellis, M., Coombs, W. T., Shonkwiler, E. L., & Folsom, L. C. (2003). Virtual reality intervention for older women with breast cancer. Cyberpsychology and Behavior, 6, 301–307.

In the virtual reality intervention (VRI), there were three scenarios from which to choose. Every patient was given a gift worth $10 at completion.

• The sample was comprised of 16 women.
• Mean age was 57.7 years (range 50–77). 
• Patients were included if they
  • Had breast cancer
  • Were 50 years or older
  • Had at least two matched intravenous chemotherapy cycles
  • Could read/write English
  • Had no primary or metastases to the brain
  • Had no history of seizures or motion sickness.

• Outpatient
• Comprehensive cancer center

This was a crossover study, with the intervention either occurring during the first or second treatment.

Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS)

When compared to the treatment cycles in which no VRI was given, there was a statistically significant decrease in fatigue immediately following chemotherapy treatments in which women received the VRI. Two days after treatment, there was a trend toward lower fatigue scores, although the differences did not reach statistical significance.

• The study had a small sample size.
• Time exposure of the intervention was not controlled or reported.
• Only patients with breast cancer were included. 
• Special equipment was required.

Nursing time is needed for follow-up telephone calls.