Virtual reality simulations in nurse education: A systematic mapping review

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Medical Simulation
• Virtual Reality Technology

Background:

• Simulation-based learning, particularly virtual reality (VR), is increasingly adopted in nursing education for its risk-free and contactless learning environment.
• Despite the growth of VR in nursing education, a comprehensive understanding of the topics covered and the alignment of simulation design with educational objectives is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically scope and analyze existing literature on educational VR nursing simulations.
• To evaluate the didactic and technical approaches employed in VR nursing simulations.
• To identify gaps in current research regarding immersive VR in nursing education.

Main Methods:

• A systematic mapping review adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines and PICo search strategy was performed.
• Searched multiple databases (Scopus, CINAHL, PubMed, ERIC, etc.) for peer-reviewed articles in English and German.
• Included studies featuring immersive head-mounted display (HMD) VR simulations for nursing education, with data analyzed narratively, graphically, and tabularly.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two articles were identified, revealing diverse definitions and applications of VR simulation in nursing education.
• Simulations were categorized by four main educational objectives: procedural skills, emergency response, soft skills (empathy), and psychomotor skills.
• Innovative designs were noted, such as using VR for auscultation training and simulating dementia care to foster empathy.

Conclusions:

• A significant gap exists in studies focusing on immersive HMD-based VR scenarios within nursing education.
• Clearer terminology is needed from researchers designing educational VR packages.
• Recommendations for future VR design include incorporating haptic devices for psychomotor skills and social interaction for soft skills development.