Augmented Reality-Based Training for a Rapid Blood Transfusion Device Among Emergency Nurses: Randomized Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Emergency Nursing
• Augmented Reality Applications

Background:

• Emergency nurses require proficiency in operating the Level-1 rapid infusion system for hypovolemic shock management.
• Training for this critical device is limited due to resource constraints and infrequent use.
• Augmented reality (AR) offers immersive, safe, hands-on learning but its application in specialized nursing device training is unevaluated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an AR-based training program on emergency nurses' competency, self-efficacy, and satisfaction.
• To compare AR training using Microsoft HoloLens 2 against traditional self-directed learning for the Level-1 rapid infusion system.

Main Methods:

• A posttest-only randomized controlled trial involved 42 nurses with no prior Level-1 experience.
• Participants were assigned to either AR-based training (HoloLens 2) or traditional guideline-based self-directed learning.
• Clinical competency was measured by time, accuracy (checklist and expert evaluation), and assistance requests; self-efficacy and satisfaction were assessed via questionnaires.

Main Results:

• AR training resulted in longer initial learning time but significantly shorter device setup time (P<.001).
• The AR group demonstrated superior clinical competency, including higher accuracy scores (P<.001) and fewer assistance requests (P<.001).
• Self-efficacy (P=.003) and educational satisfaction (P<.001) were significantly higher in the AR group, with large effect sizes.

Conclusions:

• AR-based training significantly enhances emergency nurses' clinical competency, self-efficacy, and satisfaction with the Level-1 rapid infusion system.
• AR training provides faster setup, greater accuracy, and improved learner independence compared to traditional methods.
• AR technology presents an effective and scalable solution for training nurses on critical, infrequently used medical devices in emergency care.