Using mixed reality to enhance empathy in anesthesiology trainees
Immersive Mixed Reality Simulation to Evoke Empathy
This study tests if using mixed reality simulations can help anesthesiology trainees become more empathetic in their practice.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Palo Alto, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT06351397 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of an immersive mixed reality simulation in fostering empathy among anesthesiology trainees. Participants will complete the Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy before and after the simulation to measure changes in their empathy levels. Additionally, a satisfaction survey will be conducted to assess the perceived value of the simulation experience in the context of empathy education. The study aims to quantify the impact of this innovative educational approach on trainee development.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are trainees or personnel working at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford who are 18 years or older.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of severe motion sickness, current nausea, or discomfort with wearing a weighted vest may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the empathy skills of anesthesiology trainees, leading to improved patient care.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of mixed reality in medical training is emerging, this specific approach to evoke empathy through immersive simulation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Trainees or personnel working and/or volunteering at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford / Stanford Health Care facilities * 18 years and older Exclusion Criteria: * a history of severe motion sickness * currently have nausea * have a history of seizures * are uncomfortable wearing a \~7 pound weighted vest.
Where this trial is running
Palo Alto, California
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford — Palo Alto, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Thomas Caruso, MD, PhD
- Email: tjcaruso@stanford.edu
- Phone: 6282750341
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.