Development and Testing of a Self-Paced Virtual Reality-Based Naloxone Training

With increased availability of naloxone, there is an increased need for scalable naloxone training programs. Current naloxone training efforts are promising, however, developing more interactive training platforms to improve self-efficacy in reversing overdoses and reducing anxiety associated with attending victims in real-life, especially among laypersons, remain major challenges. To address this gap, we developed a self-paced "Virtual Reality Naloxone Training (VeNT)" and tested its usability and acceptability.

Using the Apple Vision Pro spatial computing headset, a mixed reality (MR) application was developed to allow trainees to interact with virtual objects while seeing their surroundings, e.g., administering naloxone spray to a virtual patient. VeNT was field tested in diverse environments, e.g., offices, homes, and outdoor spaces, with diverse participants (N = 25), e.g., people who use drugs, potential bystanders, doctors, firefighters, tech experts, using pre-post surveys and qualitative interviews. It involved a self-paced simulated tutorial and interactive overdose response activities, rescue breathing, and chest compression.

VeNT significantly improved knowledge in recognizing an overdose and confidence in administering naloxone, rescue breathing, and chest compressions, while increasing intent to help and reducing uncertainty in responding to overdoses. Participants found VeNT more engaging than traditional training methods, noting its realism, simulated patient responses, immersive experience, and effectiveness in boosting knowledge and confidence.

VeNT offers a cost-effective solution to an unmet need, because it can be provided in diverse settings, involving more engaging techniques, compared to traditional in-person or online trainings. It also demonstrates feasibility and scalability of MR-based naloxone training.