Nurses’ Perceptions and Readiness to Use Virtual Reality Distraction in Paediatric Pain Management
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31674/mjn.2025.v17i02.003Abstract
Background: Pain, among hospitalised children, is often undertreated, leading to negative physical and psychological outcomes. Virtual Reality Distraction (VRD) has emerged as an evidence-based, non-pharmacological method that is child-friendly and nurse-applicable. Objectives: This study explores nurses’ perceptions and readiness to use VRD as a strategy for paediatric pain management. Methods: A mixed-methods design was applied, combining a survey and focus group discussions (FGDs). The study was conducted in the paediatric ward of a government hospital in Bandung, Indonesia, between August and November 2023. A total of 40 nurses completed a 15-item readiness questionnaire, while 10 nurses participated in FGDs. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data was examined using thematic analysis. Results: The findings indicated moderate readiness among nurses, with 52.6% scoring positively in both the cognitive and affective domains and 57.9% in behavioural readiness. Thematic analysis revealed five major themes regarding VRD: limited familiarity with its use, lack of integration into current nursing practice, age appropriateness of its application, the importance of age-specific content, and the need for structured training. While nurses recognised VRD as potentially effective, they emphasised practical considerations, such as training, infrastructure, and patient suitability. Conclusion: Nurses demonstrated moderate readiness and positive perceptions toward implementing VRD for paediatric pain management, highlighting its potential integration into routine care. However, readiness alone is insufficient; successful adoption requires addressing practical barriers such as staff training, age-appropriate content, and adequate infrastructure. Broader multi-site studies are recommended to validate these findings and support scalability. Hospitals should prioritise training, evidence-based guidelines, and interdisciplinary collaboration to establish VRD as an affordable, effective, and sustainable component of paediatric nursing practices.
Keywords:
Cognitive Readiness, Innovation Adoption, Non-Pharmacological Intervention, Nursing Technology, Qualitative ResearchDownloads
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