Virtual Reality Could Ease Pre-Surgical Anxiety
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Virtual reality is proving to be more than just entertainment; it’s emerging as a tool to help patients manage anxiety before surgery. Nuvance Health is at the forefront of this application, using VR technology to offer patients a more relaxed pre-operative experience.
Dr. Jordana Sandy, Chief Resident of the Neurology Residency Program at Nuvance Health’s Vassar Brothers Medical Center, explained how the VR program works. “The device can be used to help patients’ meditation and relaxation. Patients’ breathing is measured through the program, and when they breathe in, they kind of sit there and look around, and when they breathe out, they move forward in the program.”
Dr. Sandy highlighted the positive impact of the technology, especially in easing the stress of anxious patients. “We have found that decreased anxiety leads to lower inflammation and improve the outcomes because we will be able to allow outpatients to be discharged in the hospital sooner if they feel less anxious. So that’s just a couple of things this program can do.”
VR headsets have also been employed with healthcare workers, who have provided encouraging feedback.
Dr. Paul Wright, Senior Vice President of Nuvance Health Neuroscience Institute, described the immersive qualities of the VR experience. “So what happens is when you’re looking at this, you’re starting to see a landscape, and you’re immersed into a landscape where you’re hearing music, and actually being distracted. And the program is telling you to be aware and be mindful of the environment you’re in which is different from the hospital.”
Editorial Note: Dr. Sandy is related to a KGO-TV employee
