Effect of Virtual Reality Before Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy on Preprocedural Anxiety, Psychological Readiness, and Postprocedural Satisfaction

Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is one of the most frequently performed diagnostic procedures for evaluating disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Although it is generally considered safe, many patients experience considerable anxiety before the procedure. High levels of preprocedural anxiety may negatively affect psychological readiness, reduce patient cooperation, impair the overall procedural experience, and decrease satisfaction with care. Therefore, effective non-pharmacological interventions that improve the patient's psychological state before endoscopy are needed.

Virtual reality (VR) is an immersive technology that provides visual and auditory stimulation, allowing individuals to become engaged in a relaxing virtual environment and divert their attention from stressful situations. Previous studies have demonstrated that virtual reality can reduce anxiety, pain, and physiological stress during various medical procedures. However, evidence regarding the effectiveness of virtual reality when applied before upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, particularly its effects on psychological readiness and postprocedural satisfaction, remains limited.

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of virtual reality applied before upper gastrointestinal endoscopy on preprocedural anxiety, psychological readiness, and postprocedural satisfaction. The study will be conducted in the Endoscopy Unit of Kelkit State Hospital. A total of 64 patients who meet the eligibility criteria will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the virtual reality intervention group or the control group using block randomization.

Participants in the intervention group will receive a virtual reality application before the endoscopy procedure in addition to standard care. Participants in the control group will receive standard preprocedural care only. Data will be collected using the Endoscopy Patient Information Form, the State Anxiety Inventory (STAI-I), a single-item Psychological Readiness Assessment, and a single-item Postprocedural Satisfaction Assessment. Anxiety and psychological readiness will be evaluated before the procedure, while postprocedural satisfaction will be assessed immediately after completion of the endoscopy.

The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of virtual reality as a simple, non-invasive, and low-cost intervention for reducing preprocedural anxiety, improving patients' psychological readiness for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and enhancing satisfaction with the procedure. The results may contribute to the development of evidence-based nursing interventions and improve patient-centered care in endoscopy units.

Inclusion criteria

• Aged 18 years or older
• Scheduled to undergo upper gastrointestinal endoscopy
• Able to understand and communicate in Turkish
• Willing to participate in the study
• Providing written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of a diagnosed psychiatric or neurological disorder that may interfere with participation
• Presence of a visual, hearing, head, face, or eye condition that prevents the use of a virtual reality headset
• History of severe vertigo, motion sickness, or balance disorder
• Development of severe dizziness, nausea, eye strain, or discomfort during the virtual reality intervention
• Refusal to participate or withdrawal from the study