An examination of the use of virtual reality in neonatal resuscitation learning and continuing education

Aydin, Mustafa Yalin (2023) An examination of the use of virtual reality in neonatal resuscitation learning and continuing education. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (16MB)

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) is an Extended Reality (XR) technology used in many fields, like education and healthcare. One area where VR shows promise is in Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) training. VR provides a lifelike and interactive environment where healthcare providers can practice resuscitation skills, especially if they work in rural or remote areas with limited access to hands-on training. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the impact of two Virtual Reality (VR) technologies, VR simulation and 360○ videos, as instructional tools for the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). There were 15 participants randomly assigned to each condition, with a total of 30 participants. The study focused on assessing participant perceptions, experiences, and satisfaction with each technology, as well as their impact on learning outcomes. The methodology involved a robust data analysis, which entailed descriptive statistics, Chi-Square analysis, and/or T-test for within-group score comparisons. The results indicate that both VR technologies were positively viewed by healthcare professionals for NRP training. However, VR simulation provided a significantly enhanced sense of presence and immersion, leading to improved experiential learning outcomes. Participants using VR simulation reported higher confidence in certain NRP skills, such as proper mask placement and newborn response evaluation. Despite these benefits, no significant improvement was noted in other NRP skills. In conclusion, VR technologies hold significant potential for enhancing healthcare education, including NRP training, and future studies may explore the combined use of VR simulation and 360○ video, as well as their application in other areas such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and advanced cardiovascular life support training (ACLS). This research represents a step forward in understanding how VR technologies can contribute to effective and immersive medical education, with potential implications for remote and rural healthcare providers.

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