Proposed Topic (Most preferred): :
Clinical Safety and Quality Service III (Projects aiming at quality service to patients and their carers)
Proposed Topic (Second preferred): :
Research and Innovations (new projects / technology / innovations / service models)
Authors (including presenting author) :
Chu, K.Y., Chan, Y.L., Zhong, K.W., Tsang, T.S., Pang, N.Y., Ng, T.Y.
Affiliation :
Occupational Therapy Department, TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital
Introduction :
The management of chronic respiratory conditions critically relies on Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR). Traditional PR programs often encounter obstacles in patient engagement and adherence. To overcome these issues, immersive virtual reality (VR) technology is being explored. VR, experienced through a head-mounted display, provides an interactive simulated environment. Its integration into occupational therapy (OT) PR programs holds potential to boost their effectiveness and patient experience.
Objectives :
This study aimed to probe the effects of VR-based training on PR patients' psychological well-being, training engagement, adherence to breathing control exercises, sense of security and overall satisfaction. The assessment of these outcomes is intended to ascertain the potential benefits of VR in augmenting PR efficacy.
Methodology :
A mixed-method, single-group design was adopted, involving a one-week trial with daily half-hour VR sessions. Pre-post assessments, incorporating qualitative and quantitative approaches, were conducted for data collection and analysis. Quantitative measures assessed functional capacity (Barthel Index-Dyspnea), psychological well-being (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), symptom assessment (Shortness of Breath Questionnaire and Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire), and vital signs (heart rate and SpO2). Qualitative analysis hinged on semi-structured interviews, with thematic analysis used to discern underlying themes and patterns from participant experiences.
Result & Outcome :
The study, conducted from August to November 2023, involved 10 in-patients of PR program from Wong Tai Sin Hospital, aged 67 to 91 and diagnosed with COPD, Covid, and CA Lung. Quantitative results showed significant improvements across all measures, including BI-D (p< 0.001; MD -19.60), HADS-Anxiety (p< 0.001; MD -4.60), HADS-Depression (p< 0.001; MD-3.90), SOBQ (p=0.002; MD-19.85), CRQ-Dyspnea (p=0.002; MD+1.01), CRQ-Emotion (p=0.004; MD+0.89), CRQ-Management (p=0.010; MD+1.2), and CRQ-Fatigue (p< 0.001; MD+1.16). In qualitative analysis, noteworthy enhancements in psychological well-being were reported by all participants. VR resulted in relaxation, stress reduction, and distraction, highlighting a positive mental health impact. The captivating and motivating nature of the simulated environment led to increased engagement and improved breathing exercise compliance. VR also offered a secured platform for practicing breathing control, contributing to a high satisfaction rate (98.8%).
Merging VR technology into OT services for PR yields positive results. VR enhances psychological well-being, training engagement, and exercise compliance, while also providing a secure virtual environment. Future research could explore more variability of VR training to meet a wider range of therapeutic needs.
