Using Virtual Reality to Reduce Anxiety in Parents
Treatment of Parental Anxiety With Virtual Reality (VR): A Prospective, Randomized Study
This study is testing if using Virtual Reality headsets can help reduce anxiety in parents of children receiving medical care.
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 (Stanford, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05729347 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Virtual Reality (VR) headsets as a non-invasive distraction method for reducing anxiety in parents of pediatric patients. Participants will use VR technology featuring calming scenery compared to standard care, which does not involve any technological distraction. The study will enroll parents aged 18 to 99 who can provide consent, while excluding those with significant cognitive impairments or other specific health issues. The goal is to determine if VR can significantly alleviate anxiety during stressful medical situations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are parents aged 18-99 who are able to consent and are experiencing anxiety related to their child's medical care.
Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with significant cognitive impairments, severe motion sickness, or visual problems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a novel and effective way to reduce anxiety in parents during pediatric medical procedures.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using VR for anxiety reduction, suggesting this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 18-99 (Patient's parents will be enrolled) * Able to consent Exclusion Criteria: * People who do not consent * Significant Cognitive Impairment * History of Severe Motion Sickness * Current Nausea * Seizures * Visual Problems Patients whose children are clinically unstable or require urgent/emergent intervention
Where this trial is running
Stanford, California
- Lucile Parkard Children's Hospital — Stanford, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Thomas J Caruso, MD
- Email: tjcaruso@stanford.edu
- Phone: 650-723-5728
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.