The Effect of Virtual Reality Glasses on Vital Signs and State Anxiety in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography

Virtual reality (VR) glasses are an effective non-pharmacological method for reducing anxiety, supported by a high level of evidence and associated with no known side effects. Techniques involving relaxation and distraction, such as VR, function by suppressing the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system and activating the parasympathetic branch, thereby eliciting a relaxation response.

VR glasses divert the patient's attention away from pain and anxiety. By reducing the sense of unfamiliarity in clinical environments, VR helps patients adapt more easily, leading to enhanced relaxation. This state of relaxation not only alleviates anxiety but also induces favorable physiological responses. These include reductions in blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and respiratory rate (RR), along with an increase in peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Additionally, the psychological benefits of VR contribute to the reduction of anxiety, stress, fear, and worry.

VR is considered a cost-effective, safe, and non-pharmacological intervention. Several studies support its efficacy. For example, in a study comparing the effects of video games played through VR headsets and iPads on preoperative anxiety in adult patients undergoing sternotomy, anxiety was measured using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), and lower anxiety levels were observed in the VR group. Another study demonstrated that watching nature scenes through VR glasses for five minutes prior to maxillofacial surgery significantly reduced anxiety. Furthermore, research comparing progressive muscle relaxation exercises and VR during arthroscopic knee surgery-measured using the State Anxiety Inventory-indicated that both non-pharmacological interventions were effective in reducing anxiety.

However, despite this growing body of evidence, no study to date has examined the effects of VR applications on anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography or pacemaker implantation. This study aims to fill that gap by investigating the comparative effectiveness of virtual reality applications in reducing anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography.