Using virtual reality to help dialysis patients feel better
Does Virtual Reality Improve Symptom Burden in Dialysis Patients?
This study is testing if virtual reality sessions during dialysis can help patients feel better both physically and mentally.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich, Canton of Zurich) |
| Trial ID | NCT06250582 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in reducing symptom burden and improving mental wellbeing in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Over a month, participants will experience a 30-minute virtual reality session during each regular dialysis treatment, allowing them to act as their own control group in a crossover design. The study aims to address the physical and emotional challenges faced by dialysis patients, potentially enhancing their quality of life through immersive technology.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who are undergoing thrice-weekly hemodialysis and can communicate in German or English.
Not a fit: Patients with epilepsy or those who are currently pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the quality of life for dialysis patients by alleviating their symptom burden.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in medical settings is gaining traction, this specific application in dialysis patients is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Older than 18 years; * in treatment with thrice-weekly hemodialysis sessions; * regular hemodialysis duration of three to five hours * having no visual impairment * having no acoustic deficit * patient must be capable of speaking and understanding German or English * no signs of cognitive impairment * patient oriented in time and space * being able to give informed consent as documented by signature Exclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of epilepsy * current pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Zurich, Canton of Zurich
- University Hospital Zurich — Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: David Blum, Prof. Dr. — University of Zurich
- Study coordinator: David Blum, Prof.
- Email: david.blum@usz.ch
- Phone: +41432533742
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.