Virtual Reality in Preanesthetic Care: A Case Series on Feasibility and Usability

This case series investigates the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of integrating virtual reality (VR) into perioperative care. Ten adults scheduled for elective surgery participated, with six completing all three VR stages: a 360-degree hospital tour, mindfulness meditation, and immersive relaxation. Usability was assessed using two adapted versions for patients and professionals of the System Usability Scale (SUS) and open feedback collected from patients, caregivers, and health care professionals. Anxiety was measured with the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-6, heart rate, and blood pressure. Results showed high usability (SUS scores: 90.1 for patients, 75.2 for health care professionals) and positive feedback. Anxiety levels generally decreased with some variability immediately before surgery, and physiological parameters showed a downward trend, suggesting a calming effect. Feedback indicated that VR was most beneficial in the preoperative preparation ward, where it fit more easily into established workflows. However, logistical barriers, including time constraints in the preanesthesia room, highlighted the need for workflow adjustments. These findings suggest that VR is feasible and acceptable in perioperative care. Preliminary results indicate a potential role in anxiety management and reducing sedative use, but further controlled studies with larger samples are necessary to evaluate its clinical impact and refine its integration into routine practice.