BACKGROUND
In addition to traditional educational methods, virtual reality (VR) and three-dimensional (3D) technology can offer opportunities in surgical nursing education to facilitate the retention of surgical procedures more effectively.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to compare the impact of virtual reality on surgical hand scrubbing and sterile gowning knowledge, skills, satisfaction, and confidence among students enrolled in surgical nursing, against routine teaching methods.
METHODS
Participants were divided into three groups: Virtual Reality Group (VRG: 27 participants), Video Group (VG: 27 participants), and Theoretical Group (TG: 25 participants). All participants received theoretical training and demonstrations. For the VR group, a surgical hand scrubbing and sterile gowning video prepared within a scenario approved by experts was presented through virtual reality goggles. The VG watched a surgical hand scrubbing and sterile gowning video, while the TG received self-learning instructions. Knowledge and skill assessments were conducted for all groups after three weeks.
RESULTS
The VR group demonstrated proficiency in applying the steps of the procedure more quickly and showed significant improvements in self-confidence. There was no significant difference in knowledge levels among the groups. Participants in the VR group were more satisfied with the training method compared to the other groups.
CONCLUSIONS
Virtual reality is an effective strategy to support the training on surgical hand scrubbing and sterile gowning in surgical nursing.
CLINICALTRIAL
NCT06162364