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The mixed reality medical ward round with the MS HoloLens 2: Innovation in reducing COVID-19 transmission and PPE
Jeremy B Levy1, Edmund Kong1, Nathan Johnson1
1Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated changes to the traditional medical ward round to protect staff and patients. This study investigated the value and acceptability of using the Microsoft HoloLens 2 mixed reality headset in a COVID-19 renal medicine ward.
Methods:
The HoloLens 2 was used during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and it was compared with the days prior to its introduction. Staff exposure to COVID-19 and PPE usage were measured, and staff and patients were surveyed on the HoloLens 2 experience.
Results:
The average ward round was significantly shorter with the use of the HoloLens 2 (94 minutes vs 137 minutes; p=0.006). With the HoloLens 2, only the consultant was in direct contact with COVID-19 patients compared with up to seven staff members on a normal ward round. Personal protective equipment usage was reduced by over 50%. Both staff and patients were positive about its use but raised some important concerns.
Conclusion:
The HoloLens 2 mixed reality technology is an innovative solution to the challenges posed by COVID-19 to the traditional medical ward round.
Insights
Mixed reality headsets like the HoloLens 2 significantly shortened medical ward rounds during COVID-19. This technology reduced staff exposure and personal protective equipment use, offering an innovative solution for patient care.
Area of Science:
- Medical Technology
- Digital Health
- Infectious Disease Management
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic required modifications to traditional medical ward rounds to ensure safety.
- This study evaluated the use of mixed reality (MR) technology in a renal medicine ward during the pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the value and acceptability of the Microsoft HoloLens 2 mixed reality headset.
- To compare the efficiency and safety of MR-assisted ward rounds versus traditional rounds.
Main Methods:
- The HoloLens 2 was implemented during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Ward round duration, staff exposure to COVID-19, and personal protective equipment (PPE) usage were measured.
- Staff and patients completed surveys regarding their experience with the HoloLens 2.
Main Results:
- HoloLens 2 significantly reduced average ward round times (94 minutes vs. 137 minutes; p=0.006).
- Direct staff contact with COVID-19 patients decreased from up to seven individuals to only the consultant.
- Personal protective equipment usage decreased by over 50%.
Conclusions:
- Mixed reality technology, exemplified by the HoloLens 2, presents an innovative approach to addressing challenges in traditional medical ward rounds.
- The technology was positively received by both staff and patients, despite some noted concerns.
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