See if virtual reality headsets can help with pain and anxiety after open-heart surgery

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study is a randomized, controlled trial evaluating the effect of virtual reality headsets on postoperative pain, anxiety, patient satisfaction, and physiological parameters in adults undergoing elective open-heart surgery. Participants are assigned to either a virtual reality intervention or a control group, with measurements taken before and after the procedure. The goal is to determine whether the non-pharmacological VR approach can improve pain control, reduce anxiety, and positively influence physiological indicators in the recovery period.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 18 and older
* Who have not previously undergone open-heart surgery
* Non-emergency, elective surgeries
* Who have not taken pain medication 4-6 hours prior to the procedure
* Who have a numerical pain scale score of 3 or higher prior to the procedure
* Patients with sufficient cognitive ability to tolerate the virtual reality headset application
* Patients who voluntarily agree to participate in the study
* Patients extubated on the second postoperative day
* Patients with no history of chronic pain (e.g., arthritis)
* Being alert and oriented enough to communicate (Glasgow Coma Scale 15)
* Not being addicted to alcohol or drugs
* Not using anxiolytics
* Having no psychological problems (such as depression or anxiety disorders)
* Being able to read and understand Turkish

Exclusion Criteria:

* • Under 18 years of age

  * With vision or hearing loss
  * Clinically unstable
  * With a known history of epilepsy, vertigo, or limited mobility
  * With a surgical incision or scar on the face that prevents wearing VR goggles
  * Chronic opioid use or use of psychiatric medications

Where it's running

• Dokuz Eylul University
  Izmir, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.