The use of a new virtual reality software in psychiatric inpatient wards
Imagine using a special virtual reality (VR) headset to help with your mental health while in hospital. This study is testing a new VR app designed to offer calming experiences, like hypnotherapy, to patients on mental health wards. Researchers want to know if these VR headsets are easy to use in a hospital, if staff can manage them, and most importantly, if patients find them helpful and comforting. The study involves two main parts: first, getting feedback to make the app better, and then testing the improved app in drop-in sessions on the wards. Everyone involved, both staff and patients, will share their experiences to help improve future mental health support.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about exploring a new way to help people on mental health wards using a special kind of technology called virtual reality (VR). Think of VR as putting on a headset that completely immerses you in a different, computer-generated world. In this study, they're using a VR app that offers relaxing experiences, similar to hypnotherapy, to see if it can help patients feel calmer or less stressed.
The main goal is to find out two things: first, if this VR app is practical and easy to use within a busy hospital ward (this is called 'feasibility'). Second, they want to understand if staff and patients like using it and find it helpful ('acceptability'). This is an important step because if VR proves to be both practical and helpful, it could become a new tool to support people's mental wellbeing in the future.
The study will happen in two stages. The first stage involves a smaller group of patients and staff giving feedback on the VR system so it can be improved. The second stage, called the 'pilot', will involve more patients using the improved VR app in regular drop-in sessions on the wards. Throughout both stages, everyone's feedback is very important to make sure the VR app is as good and as effective as it can be.
Key takeaways
- Exploring if VR can help mental health patients on hospital wards.
- Will test a new calming VR app using a headset.
- Two stages: feedback to improve the app, then pilot testing.
- Participation involves using VR and sharing your experiences.
- No guaranteed benefits, but your input is key for future support.
- You can stop participating at any time.
Who may be eligible?
If you are an adult patient currently staying overnight at Springfield University Hospital, you might be able to take part in this study. You also need to be able to understand the study and agree to participate on your own.
For staff, if you work on an inpatient ward at Springfield University Hospital and can understand and agree to take part, you might also be suitable.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For patients, if you have a history of seizures or use a pacemaker, you won't be able to participate. Also, anyone who isn't able to understand the study and give their consent cannot take part.
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 18 or older?
- Are you currently a patient staying overnight at Springfield University Hospital?
- Can you understand and agree to take part in the study?
- Do you have a history of seizures? (If yes, you cannot participate)
- Do you have a pacemaker? (If yes, you cannot participate)
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, your experience will depend on which stage you're in. For patients in the first stage, you'll try out a VR headset and app, and then be asked to share your thoughts and feedback. If you're one of the later patients in this stage, you'll be trying an updated version of the app. Staff in this stage will have an interview about using VR.
In the second stage (the Pilot stage), patients can attend VR drop-in sessions on their ward, which will be held twice a week for four weeks. You can go as often as you like during this time, up to eight sessions. You'll complete some short questionnaires about your experience when you first use the headset, after four sessions, and again after eight sessions if you attend that many. You'll also fill out a comment card before and after each VR session and have a short chat about your feedback at the end. Staff in this stage will help run the sessions, keep a diary of their observations, and have a short interview at the end of the study. The total study duration for each participant varies depending on how many sessions they attend, but the overall study runs for about a year.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- South West London & St. George's Mental Health NHS TrustCity onlyLondon, England
Common questions
What is 'virtual reality'?
Virtual reality (VR) uses a special headset to show you a computer-generated world, making you feel like you're really there.
What kind of mental health conditions can participate?
The study is open to adult patients who are currently inpatients at Springfield University Hospital and can give their consent, regardless of their specific mental health condition.
Will I have to take any new medication?
No, this study only involves using a VR app and headset; it does not involve any new medication.
Can I stop participating if I change my mind?
Yes, you can leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your care.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC) in the UK and a company called Phase Space Ltd, which helped develop the VR app.
How to find out more
Aileen O'Brien
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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