Experimental Development of XR Enteral Feeding Function for an Endotracheal Suctioning Training Environment Simulator

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Current XR simulators for enteral feeding lack objective performance metrics and dynamic patient responses.
• This study introduces the XR-based gastrostomy tube-feeding simulator (ESTE-TF) with integrated sensors and novel reaction displays.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and educational potential of the ESTE-TF simulator.
• To assess the integration of sensor-derived data and biological-reaction modalities in XR training.

Main Methods:

• Two-stage pilot study involving nursing students and registered nurses.
• Experiment 1: Assessed perceived learning via questionnaires and sensor-based performance metrics (timing, dosing rate, procedure time).
• Experiment 2: Utilized a tablet display, assessed learning items, and compared projection mapping with tablet display feedback.

Main Results:

• Students reported significant perceived learning gains across multiple domains.
• Sensor data revealed higher dosing variability and longer procedure times in students compared to nurses.
• Projection mapping enhanced embodied experience; tablet displays offered superior clarity.

Conclusions:

• The ESTE-TF simulator demonstrates feasibility and preliminary educational value for gastrostomy feeding training.
• Integration of sensing technology and XR reaction presentation shows potential for objective skill assessment.
• Further research is needed to validate measures and refine the simulator for standardized training.