Effects of virtual reality application on pain, anxiety, and vital signs due to port catheter needle insertion: Randomized controlled study

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to examine the effects of virtual reality applications on pain, anxiety, and vital signs during port catheter needle insertion in adult cancer patients. Methods: The research followed a randomized controlled design as intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, patients received virtual reality sessions with five images in addition to routine procedures during the port catheter needle insertion. We measured the pain, anxiety, and vital parameters resulting from the port catheter needle insertion. Assessments were measured twice: at baseline (before port catheter needle insertion, T0) and at the end of the proceduce (after port catheter needle insertion, T1). Results: The virtual reality application significantly reduced the levels of pain (p=0.45) and anxiety (p<0.001) at T1 in the intervention group compared to the control group. The virtual reality application showed no difference between T0 and T1 in the vital parameters of the intervention group. Conclusions: Virtual reality application during the port catheter needle insertion procedure reduced pain levels and anxiety levels in cancer patients. The virtual reality applications to reduce pain and anxiety levels during the port catheter needle insertion procedure can be recommended.