Virtual Reality-Based Transitional Care for ICU Survivors

This is a single-center, randomized controlled trial designed to investigate the effects of a virtual reality (VR)-based transitional care intervention on physiological stability and psychological adaptation among adult ICU survivors.

Critically ill patients often experience relocation stress syndrome following transfer from the ICU to general wards. This transition period is associated with increased anxiety, pain perception, autonomic imbalance, and a higher risk of unplanned ICU readmission.

Eligible participants will be randomized using block randomization into the intervention or control group. The intervention group will receive three VR sessions during their ICU stay in addition to standard transitional care. The control group will receive standard care alone.

The primary outcome is short-term physiological stability measured within 48 hours after ICU transfer. Secondary outcomes include heart rate variability parameters, pain intensity, relocation stress, and unplanned ICU readmission within 7 days.

This study seeks to determine whether VR-assisted transitional care can enhance recovery, reduce stress-related responses, and improve patient outcomes following ICU discharge.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 20 years or older
• Adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU)
• Planned transfer from ICU to the general ward
• Able to communicate and provide informed consent or have a legal representative provide consent

Exclusion criteria

• Severe cognitive impairment or delirium preventing participation
• Severe visual or hearing impairment interfering with VR use
• Hemodynamic instability requiring immediate life-saving intervention
• Isolation precautions prohibiting device use
• Participation in another interventional study that may affect outcomes