This study developed virtual reality-based training content for isolation precautions in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) for nursing students to address the increasing significance of infection control in neonatal critical care. The research aime...
This study developed virtual reality-based training content for isolation precautions in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) for nursing students to address the increasing significance of infection control in neonatal critical care. The research aimed to enhance nursing students' infection control competencies required in clinical settings while providing a safe practice environment, utilizing the immersive, accessible, and repeatable nature of virtual reality simulations to establish a foundation for practical education.
This study targeted third- and fourth-year students. The content was developed based on the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) methodology proposed and the engagement cycle. Scenarios and teaching plans were developed through educational needs analysis, a literature review, and expert consultation, and content validity was verified.
This study successfully developed a virtual reality simulation scenario designed to train nursing students in isolation precautions within neonatal intensive care units (NICU). This scenario centered around a newborn with a gestational age of 32 weeks and 4 days who was admitted to an NICU isolation room. It included seven critical nursing procedures: hand hygiene, personal protective equipment management, umbilical venous catheter care, eye care, hepatitis B vaccination, and ventilator-associated pneumonia management. A parallel-structure algorithm was implemented to enhance learner autonomy and integrate critical and transition points to provide immediate interactive feedback, thereby significantly enhancing realism and immersion. The content validity of the simulation was confirmed through evaluations by experts and practitioners, with I-CVI and S-CVI scores exceeding 0.7, confirming its educational validity. A preliminary user experience assessment of five nursing students yielded positive outcomes. Participants reported high satisfaction and engagement with the simulation content, and their proficiency in virtual reality interactions was positively perceived. The visual experience was rated as highly immersive, and delays between actions and expected outcomes were minimal. The integration of a parallel-structure algorithm represents a significant advancement in nursing education, promoting learner autonomy and enhancing skill acquisition. By simulating real-world scenarios with immediate feedback and environmental changes, this approach effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills in neonatal intensive care and infection control practices. These findings suggest that this immersive and interactive educational tool significantly enhances nursing students' preparedness for the complexities of clinical practice, offering a promising solution to the challenges faced in traditional nursing education.
The virtual reality-based training content developed for isolation precautions in the NICU is anticipated to serve as an effective educational tool. It aims to promote engagement by enhancing elements that increase learner immersion, addressing limitations in clinical practice opportunities for nursing students, and improving infection control competencies.
Keyword : Virtual Reality, Isolation Precautions, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Nursing Education, Parallel Structure Algorithm, Critical Points, Transition Points