Using Virtual Reality to Boost Self-Efficacy in Pediatric Patients

Improving Self-Efficacy of Hospitalized Children With Virtual Reality Education: A Pragmatic, Crossover Trial

Not applicable Interventional Stanford University · NCT05725395

This study is testing if using Virtual Reality can help kids and young adults feel more confident about their health while they are in the hospital.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 25 Years
SexAll
SponsorStanford University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Palo Alto, California)
Trial IDNCT05725395 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study explores the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) as an intervention to enhance self-efficacy among pediatric patients in a healthcare setting. It aims to compare the impact of an educational VR experience against standard care on self-reported measures of self-efficacy in children and adolescents aged 5 to 25. Participants will alternate between receiving the VR intervention and standard care on different days during their hospital stay, allowing for a direct comparison of outcomes. The study also seeks to establish a profile of short-term psychological well-being in these patients following hospital admission.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are pediatric patients aged 5 to 25 who are admitted to Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of seizure disorders, motion sickness, or those who are clinically unstable may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the psychological well-being and self-efficacy of pediatric patients during hospital stays.

How similar studies have performed: While VR has been explored for pain distraction and anxiety reduction, this specific approach to enhancing self-efficacy in pediatric patients is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients' age range from 5 to 25 at LPCH/SHC facilities

Exclusion Criteria:

* Participants who do not consent
* Have a history of seizure disorder
* Currently have nausea
* Have motion sickness
* Are clinically unstable
* Currently using corrective glasses (not compatible with VR headset)
* Currently pregnant

Where this trial is running

Palo Alto, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PsychologicalVirtual Reality
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.