Evaluating Healthcare Professionals' Satisfaction and Stress Mitigation Using Virtual Reality Intervention in Surgical Ward

This study investigates the use of the HealthyMind Virtual Reality (VR) application as an innovative intervention to reduce stress among healthcare workers in surgical departments. Although workplace stress is common, there is currently a lack of structured interventions to address it.

The VR application provides healthcare professionals with the opportunity to relax through immersive, calming three-dimensional environments, such as a sunset by the sea or a mountain landscape. The VR headset is paired with an armband that non-invasively measures physiological parameters, including heart rate and heart rate variability. Based on these data, the VR environment automatically adapts to the user's stress level, for example by introducing a guided breathing exercise.

The intervention can be used at any self-selected moment during a shift, with the aim of offering a short and effective recovery break. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and user satisfaction of the VR intervention among healthcare workers. Secondary objectives include assessing its potential contribution to stress reduction, user comfort, and practical integration into daily workflows.

Inclusion criteria

• Volunteering healthcare professionals (≥18 years old) working in direct patient care, such as nurses, residents, physician assistants, and surgeons, on the surgical ward.

Exclusion criteria

• Diagnosed with epilepsy
• Experienced VR as a trigger for their migraines
• Severe dizziness, nausea or physical disabilities will be excluded.
• Diagnosed with arrythmias, bradycardia or tachycardia
• Not able to wear the VR headset due to physical or psychological conditions