Using virtual reality to reduce delirium in ICU patients

Effects of Multi-model Virtual Reality Intervention Method to Reduce the Prevalence of Delirium in ICU Patients With Mechanical Ventilation

Not applicable Interventional Peking Union Medical College Hospital · NCT05525702

This study is testing if using virtual reality to connect ICU patients with their families can help reduce confusion and improve their recovery while they are on a ventilator.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment102 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorPeking Union Medical College Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beijing, Beijing Municipality)
Trial IDNCT05525702 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of a Virtual Reality-based Family Support System (VRFS) in reducing delirium among mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU. Participants will be fitted with VR headsets and noise-canceling headphones to create a calming environment while allowing family members to provide support. The study will monitor physiological data and track delirium occurrences, sedative use, and ICU stay duration to assess the impact of the VR intervention on clinical outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are mechanically ventilated ICU patients aged 18 and older who are expected to stay in the ICU for more than 72 hours.

Not a fit: Patients with severe visual or auditory impairments, cognitive disturbances prior to ICU admission, or those who cannot tolerate VR equipment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce the incidence of delirium in ICU patients, leading to improved recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of VR in healthcare is gaining traction, this specific application for reducing ICU delirium is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in previous studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Mechanical ventilation duration is expected to be greater than 24 hours;
* ICU stay duration is expected to be greater than 72 hours;
* Age is 18 years or older, with no upper age limit;
* Language: Chinese. Exclusion Criteria
* Severe visual or auditory impairments (diplopia, low vision due to macular degeneration, retinopathy; severe hearing loss or deafness);
* Cognitive and consciousness disturbances prior to ICU admission;
* Severe motion sickness;
* Head trauma or surgery that prevents the wearing of equipment;
* A history of long-term use of antipsychotic and/or benzodiazepine medications.

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing Municipality

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 DeliriumICUVirtual Realityfamily support
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.