Introduction to Virtual Reality in Healthcare
Virtual reality is often related to gaming and entertainment, but its applications extend far beyond that. Recently, it has been utilized within the healthcare sector to assist reduce pre-surgical anxiety in patients. This revolutionary approach is being implemented at Nuvance Health, where the technology is used to assist patients in meditation and rest.
How Virtual Reality Works in Healthcare
The device used at Nuvance Health measures a patient’s respiratory through a program. As the patient breathes in, they can go searching, and as they breathe out, they move forward in this system. This unique approach helps patients deal with their respiratory, calming their minds and reducing anxiety.
Applications in Neurology
Dr. Jordana Sandy, Chief Resident of the Neurology Residency Program at Nuvance Health’s Vassar Brothers Medical Center, has seen the positive impact of virtual reality on anxious patients. The technology is especially useful within the neurology field, where decreased anxiety can result in lower inflammation and improved outcomes. By reducing anxiety, patients are in a position to be discharged from the hospital sooner, making the recovery process more efficient.
Benefits for Healthcare Workers
The virtual reality headset has not only been used on patients but additionally on healthcare staff, who’ve provided positive feedback. This technology has the potential to profit each patients and staff, making a more relaxed and calm environment in healthcare settings.
The Science Behind Virtual Reality
Dr. Paul Wright, Senior Vice President of Nuvance Health Neuroscience Institute, explains how the visual aid works. The program immerses the user in a landscape, complete with music, distracting them from their surroundings and promoting mindfulness. This distraction is vital to reducing anxiety, because it takes the user’s focus away from the hospital environment and onto a more calming atmosphere.
Conclusion
The use of virtual reality in healthcare is a groundbreaking approach to reducing pre-surgical anxiety. With its ability to advertise rest and mindfulness, this technology has the potential to revolutionize the best way we approach patient care. As seen at Nuvance Health, virtual reality can result in improved outcomes, reduced inflammation, and a more efficient recovery process. As this technology continues to evolve, it’s going to be exciting to see its further applications within the healthcare sector.
