The Use of a Novel Virtual Reality Training Tool for Peritoneal Dialysis: Qualitative Assessment Among Health Care Professionals (Preprint)

Abstract

Effective peritoneal dialysis (PD) training is essential for performing dialysis at home and reducing the risk of peritonitis and other PD-related infections. Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative learning tool that is able to combine theoretical information, interactivity, and behavioral instructions while offering a playful learning environment. To improve patient training for PD, Fresenius Medical Care launched the <i>stay•safe</i> MyTraining VR, a novel educational program based on the use of a VR headset and a handheld controller.

This qualitative assessment aims to investigate opinions toward the new tool among the health care professionals (HCPs) who were responsible for implementing the VR application.

We recruited nursing staff and nephrologists who have gained practical experience with the <i>stay•safe</i> MyTraining VR within pilot dialysis centers. Predetermined open-ended questions were administered during individual and group video interviews.

We interviewed 7 HCPs who have 2 to 20 years of experience in PD training. The number of patients trained with the <i>stay•safe</i> MyTraining VR ranged from 2 to 5 for each professional. The <i>stay•safe</i> MyTraining VR was well accepted and perceived as a valuable supplementary tool for PD training. From the respondents’ perspective, the technology improved patients’ learning experience by facilitating the internalization of both medical information and procedural skills. HCPs highlighted that the opportunity offered by VR to reiterate training activities in a positive and safe learning environment, according to each patient’s needs, can facilitate error correction and implement a standardized training curriculum. However, VR had limited use in the final phase of the patient PD training program, where learners need to get familiar with the handling of the materials. Moreover, the traditional PD training was still considered essential to manage the emotional and motivational aspects and address any patient-specific application-oriented questions. In addition to its use within PD training, VR was perceived as a useful tool to support the decision-making process of patients and train other HCPs. Moreover, VR introduction was associated with increased efficiency and productivity of HCPs because it enabled them to perform other activities while the patient was practicing with the device. As for patients’ acceptance of the new tool, interviewees reported positive feedback, including that of older adults. Limited use with patients experiencing dementia or severe visual impairment or lacking sensomotoric competence was mentioned.

The <i>stay•safe</i> MyTraining VR is suggested to improve training efficiency and efficacy and thus could have a positive impact in the PD training scenario. Our study offers a process proposal that can serve as a guide to the implementation of a VR-based PD training program within other dialysis centers. Dedicated research is needed to assess the operational benefits and the consequences on patient management.