Impact of Virtual Reality on the Quality of Life of Oncology Patients
This study is looking into whether virtual reality (VR) can make chemotherapy easier for cancer patients, particularly children. Chemotherapy can cause unpleasant side effects like anxiety, sickness, and pain. We know that VR has helped with these issues before. This research will specifically check if using VR during a patient's first few chemotherapy sessions can reduce anxiety, nausea, and vomiting. We also want to understand how much VR improves their general quality of life. The study will also gather feedback from both patients and the nursing staff to see how satisfied they are with using VR as a way to cope with treatment. It's about finding new ways to make treatment more comfortable.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Chemotherapy, a common cancer treatment, can unfortunately come with some tough side effects like feeling sick, throwing up, and feeling very anxious. For children, these side effects can be particularly distressing. This study is exploring a new way to help patients cope: virtual reality (VR).
VR has shown promise in making people feel less anxious, distracted from pain, and easing some physical symptoms. This research aims to see if using VR during the first few chemotherapy sessions can effectively reduce feelings of anxiety, sickness, and vomiting for cancer patients. Beyond managing these specific symptoms, the study will also look at how VR impacts a patient's overall quality of life, which means how well they feel and function in their daily lives.
Ultimately, researchers want to see if VR can improve the experience of chemotherapy for patients and make them feel more comfortable during a challenging time. They will also be asking patients and nurses for their opinions on how helpful and satisfying the VR experience is.
Key takeaways
- Exploring if VR can make chemotherapy easier.
- Aimed at reducing anxiety, sickness, and pain during treatment.
- Will assess patient happiness and nurses' views on VR.
- Participation involves using VR or receiving standard care, plus questionnaires.
- You can stop participating at any time.
- This is a research study to understand a new approach.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would need to be an adult cancer patient who is about to start chemotherapy for the very first time. You should be receiving chemotherapy through a drip into your vein. It's also important that you understand either French or English, and you must agree to take part freely and in writing after having all the information explained to you.
There are certain reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you have conditions like epilepsy, severe vision or hearing problems that would stop you from using VR headphones, or if you have certain psychiatric conditions like hallucinations. Also, if you have a pacemaker, severe claustrophobia, or problems with motion sickness, this study might not be suitable for you.
Additionally, if you have a brain tumour, cognitive or learning difficulties, or any infections or wounds on your face, you wouldn't be able to take part. The chemotherapy sessions you will be having must also be longer than 30 minutes for the first three treatments.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you starting chemotherapy for the first time?
- Will your chemotherapy be given through a drip (intravenous)?
- Can you understand explanations in English or French?
- Do you not have epilepsy, severe vision/hearing problems, a pacemaker, or severe claustrophobia?
- Are your chemotherapy sessions expected to last longer than 30 minutes?
- Are you at least 18 years old?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be placed into one of two groups by chance – like drawing names from a hat. One group will use virtual reality (VR) during their chemotherapy, and the other group will receive standard care without VR. All participants will answer some questionnaires.
Before your very first chemotherapy session, you'll have an initial visit. Then, during your first three chemotherapy cycles, if you're in the VR group, you'll use a special VR program called 'Healthy Mind VR' during your treatment sessions. If you're in the standard care group, you'll receive your usual treatment. After these three cycles, you'll have follow-up visits at 3, 6, and 9 months to see how you're doing.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Centre Hospitalier de ChaunyVerified postcodeChauny, France· Recruiting
- Centre Hospitalier de Saint QuentinVerified postcodeSaint-Quentin, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is virtual reality?
Virtual reality (VR) uses special headsets to create an immersive, 3D experience that can make you feel like you're in a different place, like a calming natural scene.
Will I still get my normal chemotherapy?
Yes, everyone in the study will receive their usual chemotherapy treatment. The VR is an extra support, not a replacement for medical care.
Is the VR safe?
The VR system used is designed to be safe. Some people might feel a bit dizzy or uncomfortable at first, but this is usually temporary. You can always stop using it if you feel unwell.
How does VR help with side effects?
VR helps by distracting your mind from discomfort, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, which can in turn lessen symptoms like nausea and pain.
Do I have to use VR if I join?
The study has two groups; one uses VR and one doesn't. You will be assigned to one group by chance. If you are in the VR group, you would be asked to use it, but you can always withdraw from the study at any time.
How to find out more
Frédérique Mm Roussel
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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