Abstract
Background: Virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) are effective training tools in different healthcare settings. These tools are useful for preparing emergency health personnel to respond to disasters by providing them with an immersive reality since real practices are very difficult to implement during mass casualty incidents.
Given the usefulness of this approach, assessing the optimal training times associated with this method and the side effects that may influence learning is helpful. One of the most common side effects is fatigue. We developed a scale to assess fatigue in terms of various dimensions that can affect a person while training in the context of VR and MR.
Methods: We designed a questionnaire to assess the fatigue levels perceived by professionals and validated this measure after a VR training experience. We analyzed ratings of visual, mental, physical, and general fatigue. This questionnaire was applied to emergency professionals (n=66).
Results: The reliability and validity of the scale were assessed in terms of the following factors: general, social, emotional, visual, and motivational fatigue.
Conclusions: The results of this research suggest that fatigue is an element of VR training. Educators should take these effects into account to optimize learning in the context of MR.