A Qualitative Inquiry of Patients Using Virtual Reality to Mitigate Cancer Pain.

Area of Science:

• Pain Management
• Virtual Reality Technology
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Virtual reality (VR) is an emerging technology demonstrating efficacy in managing pain across various conditions, including cancer.
• Current VR pain management strategies primarily utilize generic, off-the-shelf applications for distraction.
• Understanding patient preferences for VR content is crucial for optimizing its therapeutic potential in oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and understand patient preferences for virtual reality (VR) content used as a distraction therapy for mitigating cancer-related pain.
• To identify key elements of VR experiences that contribute to effective pain relief in cancer patients.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative inquiry involving semi-structured interviews with 12 patients undergoing VR therapy for cancer pain.
• Grounded theory approach to analyze emerging themes and subthemes from patient interviews.
• Exploration of patient experiences and preferences regarding VR content for pain management.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified include immersion, distraction, relaxation, and safety during VR use.
• Greater immersion and distraction in VR were correlated with reduced cancer pain severity.
• Preferred VR content themes included familiar settings (home, nature) and social connections (family, friends).

Conclusions:

• Patients find virtual immersion and relatable, natural virtual environments enhance the effectiveness of VR distraction therapy for cancer pain.
• Personalized and familiar VR content may significantly improve analgesia and patient experience in cancer care.
• Future VR content development should prioritize themes that foster a sense of comfort and connection for patients experiencing cancer pain.