Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 6, 2026
Author Spotlight: Rehabilitation of Stroke Patients With a Digital Occupational Training System
Published on: December 29, 2023
Effectiveness of virtual reality-based training in clinical skills for newly graduated nurses
YaWen Lee1, ShuJyuan Chen2, WanRu Huang2
1Department of Nursing, Changhua Christian Hospital, No. 135, Nanxiao St., Changhua City, Changhua 500209, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Nursing, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
Aim:
This study compares the impact of virtual reality (VR) training versus conventional e-learning on newly graduated nurses (NGNs) learning six core clinical skills. We primarily assessed self-efficacy, along with secondary outcomes including knowledge, skills and satisfaction, while also identifying factors that influence self-efficacy.
Background:
NGNs need strong self-efficacy and skills for clinical transitions. VR's immersive training potential is promising, but its long-term impact versus traditional methods is unclear due to mixed evidence.
Design:
Quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test with a comparison group and three-month follow-up.
Methods:
150 NGNs at a Taiwanese medical center were assigned to VR (n = 75) or e-learning (n = 75) groups via alternating cohorts. Both received physical skills training post-online modules. Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T1), post-physical training (T2) and three months (T3) using the General Self-Efficacy Scale, cognitive questionnaire, Direct Observation of Procedural Skills and satisfaction scale. Mixed-design ANOVA and regression analyzed data, with last observation carried forward for attrition.
Results:
No significant Time*Group interactions were found for self-efficacy (p = 0.970), cognitive knowledge (p = 0.459), clinical skills (p = 0.741), or satisfaction (p = 0.245), showing VR was not superior. Significant Time effects (p < 0.001) indicated T1-to-T2 gains, with declines at T3 for self-efficacy and cognition. Baseline self-efficacy and T3 satisfaction predicted T3 self-efficacy (R²=0.215). Attrition was 42.7 % by T3.
Conclusions:
VR training did not outperform e-learning over three months. Both supported short-term gains, but sustaining these requires further strategies. Baseline self-efficacy and satisfaction are key predictors. Future studies should address attrition and optimize VR designs for NGNs.
