Schneider, S. M., Prince-Paul, M., Allen, M. J., Silverman, P., & Talaba, D. (2004). Virtual reality as a distraction intervention for women receiving chemotherapy. Oncology Nursing Forum, 31, 81–88.

DOI Link

Intervention Characteristics/Basic Study Process

The two-arm study included virtual reality, pre-/post second day tests, and three scenario choices for chemotherapy infusion. Patients were randomized to the first or second chemotherapy session to an approximately 45-minute intervention.

Sample Characteristics

  • The sample was comprised of 20 women with breast cancer.
  • Age ranged from 27 to 55 years. 
  • Patients had no brain metastases or primary and no history of motion sickness or seizures.

Setting

  • Outpatient
  • Comprehensive cancer center

Study Design

The study was a randomized, crossover trial.

Measurement Instruments/Methods

  • Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS)
  • Self-Directed Search (SDS)
  • State Anxiety Inventory (SAI)
  • Open-ended questionnaire “Eval VR Intervention\"

Results

There was a trend toward lower scores after the intervention, although the difference was not statistically significant.

Nursing Implications

  • The study had a small sample size.
  • Only patients with breast cancer were included.
  • The intervention was not useful for cognitive impairment.
  • The equipment was expensive, and special training was required.