A randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups was conducted, to determine the effect of virtual reality (VR) and modified progressive muscle relaxation (MPMR) distraction techniques on anxiety, attention and getting distracted from the external environment among cardiac care unit patients. The study is based on the following hypotheses: H1: Patients who receive VR intervention have lower Hamilton Anxiety Rating (HAM-A) scores than those who receive MPMR intervention. H2: Patients who receive VR intervention exhibit improvement in their physiological parameters than those who receive MPMR intervention. H3: Patients who receive VR intervention have higher Attention/Distraction scores than those who receive MPMR intervention.
This randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups was conducted in the cardiac care unit of Smouha Hospital, affiliated with Alexandria University, Egypt. A total of 158 patients were recruited using a simple random sampling method and assigned to one of two groups to determine the effects of virtual reality (VR) and modified progressive muscle relaxation (MPMR) distraction techniques on anxiety, attention, and distraction from the external environment among cardiac care unit patients. Four assessment tools were used: 1. Sociodemographic and Clinical Assessment. 2. Physiological Parameter Assessment. 3. Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). 4. Attention/Distraction Scale.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
158
The VR goggles and headset phone were placed on the patient's head, straps secured, and lens spacing adjusted for a clear visual field. Patients were instructed to use head movements to control the cursor and interact with the virtual content. The 3D video clips with natural sceneries and background music were played to create a relaxing experience.
The exercises applied to specific body parts while patients closed their eyes and practiced deep breathing, accompanied by background music.
Cardiac care unit of Smouha Hospital, which is affiliated to Alexandria University, Egypt.
Alexandria, Egypt
Comparison of changes in physiological parameters between baseline and post-intervention scores for both groups.
Compares the degree of change between baseline physiological parameters (heart rate and rhythm, respiratory rate and rhythm, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and pain level) and post-intervention scores for both groups.
Time frame: Baseline physiological parameter assessments were conducted individually for each patient on the first day of the intervention. Post-intervention assessments were conducted during the same three shifts across the three-day period.
Comparison of changes in anxiety levels between baseline and post-intervention scores for both groups.
Compares the degree of change between baseline anxiety level (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, HAM-A) and post-intervention scores for both groups.
Time frame: Baseline anxiety level assessments were conducted individually for each patient on the first day of the intervention. Post-intervention assessments were conducted during the same three shifts across the three-day period.
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