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Updated: Jul 8, 2026

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Online Explorative Study on the Learning Uses of Virtual Reality Among Early Adopters
Published on: November 22, 2019
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Resuscitation education science meets virtual and augmented reality: Evolution from potential concept to
Nino Fijačko1,2, Manuel Pardo Rios3, Federico Semeraro4
1University of Maribor, Faculty of Health Sciences, Maribor, Slovenia.
Resuscitation Plus
|April 29, 2025
Summary
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) integration in adult Basic Life Support (BLS) education is evolving, with recent weak recommendations from ILCOR. Evidence remains limited, necessitating further research on effectiveness and patient impact.
Area of Science:
- Resuscitation Education Science
- Medical Simulation Technology
- Healthcare Education
Background:
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are increasingly explored for adult Basic Life Support (BLS) training.
- The integration of these immersive technologies into resuscitation education has evolved over time.
- Initial focus was on professional training, but applications now extend to laypersons and schoolchildren.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the historical development of recommendations for incorporating VR and AR into adult BLS education.
- To analyze the progression of guidance from key resuscitation organizations regarding these technologies.
Main Methods:
- A two-phase search was conducted in December 2024, focusing on publications from ILCOR, AHA, and ERC.
- Phase one involved reviewing ILCOR publications on VR/AR in adult BLS education.
- Phase two involved a citation and reference search of identified publications.
Main Results:
- 29 publications from AHA, ERC, and ILCOR were included.
- The first mention of VR was in 2003, with the first recommendation in 2020 AHA guidelines (very low evidence).
- In 2024, ILCOR issued weak recommendations: supporting AR and against VR for adult BLS, both based on very low-quality evidence.
Conclusions:
- The effectiveness of VR/AR in resuscitation training is still debated due to a lack of strong evidence.
- Future research should focus on learning outcomes, guideline adherence, and patient impact.
- Further evidence is needed to support stronger recommendations from organizations like ILCOR.
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