Early Mobilization, Open-heart Surgery, Virtual Reality
Conditions
Keywords
virtual reality, open heart surgery, early mobilization, nursing, surgery, postoperative care
Brief summary
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) applications in promoting early mobilization exercises for patients undergoing open-heart surgery. Virtual reality is a non-invasive, easily accessible, and innovative method increasingly used in healthcare settings, including rehabilitation and exercise interventions. Evidence from the literature highlights VR's potential to reduce anxiety, and improve recovery in various patient groups. Despite its extensive applications, there is limited research on the impact of VR in the early postoperative care of cardiac surgery patients. This study addresses this gap by investigating the role of VR-based exercises in improving physical activity and rehabilitation outcomes during the critical early recovery period after surgery. Participants will engage in a VR-supported rehabilitation program during their hospital stay. The study will assess the effects of VR exercises on early mobilization, and overall recovery. The results aim to contribute to the growing field of digital health and provide evidence for integrating VR into postoperative care to enhance the quality of nursing care and patient outcomes.
Detailed description
This study investigates the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) applications in supporting early mobilization exercises for patients undergoing open-heart surgery. The intervention leverages VR technology as a non-invasive, accessible, and engaging tool to enhance recovery outcomes in the critical early postoperative period. While VR has been widely used in rehabilitation for various patient populations, its application in cardiac surgery for early mobilization remains limited and underexplored. Using a randomized controlled trial design, this research evaluates the impact of VR-based exercises compared to standard care on patients' physical activity, motivation, and recovery. The intervention focuses on promoting physical mobility through interactive VR modules designed to facilitate rehabilitation exercises in a hospital setting. Additionally, the study examines the psychological and social benefits of VR, including its potential to reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being during the recovery process. This research aims to address a gap in the literature by focusing on the early postoperative phase, where effective mobilization is critical to preventing complications and promoting faster recovery. The study is aligned with the Republic of Turkey's 12th Development Plan, emphasizing the integration of digital health technologies into routine healthcare services to improve patient outcomes and quality of care. The findings from this study are expected to provide valuable evidence supporting the adoption of VR in postoperative care for open-heart surgery patients. By demonstrating its effectiveness as a cost-efficient and scalable intervention, this research seeks to contribute to the development of innovative and patient-centered approaches in nursing care and digital health practices.
Interventions
OTHERVirtual Reality-Supported Early Mobilization Program
The intervention involves the use of a virtual reality (VR)-supported mobilization program specifically designed for patients recovering from open-heart surgery. Participants wear a VR headset that delivers guided sessions comprising: Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing and coughing techniques to support respiratory function and prevent complications. Lower Limb Exercises: Interactive movements aimed at improving circulation and preventing venous stasis. Mobilization Strategies: Gradual and guided steps to assist patients in transitioning from bed to ambulation, tailored to their recovery stage. This intervention is unique because it integrates an immersive and engaging digital environment to promote physical activity, reduce anxiety, and enhance motivation during the critical early postoperative phase. Unlike standard rehabilitation practices, the VR program provides real-time feedback and visual cues to ensure correct execution of movements.
Sponsors
Istanbul University
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
SINGLE (Subject)
Masking description
In this study, participants and clinicians administering the intervention will not be masked due to the nature of the virtual reality (VR) application. However, the data analysis will be blinded to ensure unbiased interpretation of results. The analysts will not have access to group allocation information, allowing for objective evaluation of the collected data. No additional parties involved in the clinical trial, beyond the data analysts, are masked.
Intervention model description
This study employs a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design to evaluate the effects of virtual reality (VR) applications on early mobilization in patients who have undergone open-heart surgery. The interventional model involves two groups: Intervention Group: Participants in this group will use VR technology to engage in guided mobilization exercises. VR applications will provide structured, engaging, and interactive sessions designed to enhance physical activity and recovery. Each session includes a combination of breathing exercises, lower limb movements, and mobilization strategies presented through a user-friendly VR interface. Control Group: Participants in the control group will receive standard post-operative care, including mobilization as routinely practiced in the clinical setting. No VR application will be used in this group.
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to No maximum
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Those who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study and written consent was obtained, * 18 years and over, * Literate, * Understand and speak Turkish language, * No sensory problem (auditory, visual) * Person, place and time oriented, * No cognitive problems in expressing themselves, * Does not have any physical limitation (disability), * Patients undergoing planned open heart surgery for the first time
Exclusion criteria
* Patients with neurological problems (stroke, etc.), * Patients who develop complications related to surgery in the clinic (delirium, arterial fibrillation, sternal angulation, etc.), * History of cerebrovascular events, * Patients with a Glasgow scale \<15, * Patients with complaints of vertigo, dizziness, etc. * Patients with impaired hemodynamics when wearing glasses * Deterioration of the general condition of the patient * Patient abandonment of the study * Death of the patient * Patients who develop nausea and vomiting while wearing virtual reality glasses
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Measure: Changes in mobility levels | 1 DAY | Description: Evaluated using the Patient Mobility Scale to assess patients' ability to perform activities such as sitting, standing, and walking during the early postoperative period. |
Countries
Turkey (Türkiye)
Contacts
Primary Contactyakup akyüz akyüz, research assistant
Backup Contactaylin durmaz edeer edeer durmaz edeer, associate professor doctor
Outcome results
None listed