Usability and Satisfaction of Augmented Reality During Pediatric Anesthesia Induction: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Anesthesiology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Anesthesia induction in children is often a distressing experience.
• Augmented reality (AR) presents a potential tool to mitigate this distress by engaging patients.
• Investigating AR's impact on patient, caregiver, and provider experience is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the satisfaction and usability of an AR intervention during pediatric anesthesia induction.
• To assess AR's effectiveness in reducing patient anxiety and improving the overall experience.
• To gather perspectives from patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers on AR implementation.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 24 pediatric patients (aged 10-19) undergoing anesthesia induction with an AR intervention.
• Data collection via pre- and post-procedural surveys, including the anxiety thermometer visual analog scale (VAS) and Gold & Rizzo Immersion and Presence (GRIP) inventory.
• Univariate analyses and qualitative data evaluation to determine primary outcomes related to usability and satisfaction.

Main Results:

• High satisfaction reported by patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers with the AR intervention.
• 88% of providers noted AR aided patients; caregivers and patients reported high ratings for AR's helpfulness and calming effects.
• No significant increase in patient anxiety (VAS p=0.102); GRIP inventory indicated moderate to high satisfaction, immersion, and functionality.

Conclusions:

• AR is a highly satisfactory, immersive, and user-friendly intervention for pediatric anesthesia induction.
• The technology effectively engages patients, offering significant usability and calming benefits.
• Patients, caregivers, and providers strongly support AR for its positive impact on the induction process.