Evaluation of Learner Engagement Following Virtual Reality Augmented Central Line Training

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Simulation
• Virtual Reality Applications

Background:

• Central line placement is a crucial medical skill.
• Traditional training opportunities for central line placement are often limited for medical students.
• There is a need for innovative training methods to improve competence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of virtual reality (VR) training on fourth-year medical students' perceived competence for central line placement.
• To assess the value and appeal of VR as a training adjunct.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 54 fourth-year medical students.
• Students underwent virtual reality (VR) training for central line placement.
• VR training was followed by hands-on simulation.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in perceived competence for central line placement after VR training.
• Improvements noted across multiple dimensions of competence.
• Students rated the VR experience as highly valuable and worthwhile, despite moderate engagement.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality (VR) training shows promise as an effective adjunct to traditional methods for central line placement education.
• VR training can enhance medical students' preparedness and confidence in performing central line procedures.
• Further integration of VR in medical curricula may improve procedural skill acquisition.