VR Episiotomy Simulation: Impact on Midwifery Students' Skills and Self-Efficacy (VESES)

Overview

This study aims to develop and evaluate a virtual reality (VR)-based episiotomy training simulation for midwifery students. Episiotomy is a surgical procedure performed during childbirth, and incorrect application may lead to serious psychological and physiological consequences. While traditional training methods often use animal tissues or synthetic materials, recent advances in technology have introduced simulation-based learning. VR technology has shown potential to enhance learning outcomes, confidence, and satisfaction among healthcare students. Despite its growing use in medical education, there is currently no VR training model specifically designed for teaching episiotomy skills. This study will design a VR episiotomy simulation, assess its effectiveness in skill acquisition and learning, and propose it as a new educational method in midwifery training.

This study aims to develop and evaluate a virtual reality (VR)-supported episiotomy simulation training program for midwifery students. The unique contribution of this study lies in assessing skills acquisition, learning processes, and satisfaction differences in VR-based episiotomy training, a field where no previous VR applications for episiotomy skills training have been identified in the literature. A randomized controlled parallel-group design will be employed. The study will take place at Van Yuzuncu Yıl University Faculty of Health Sciences (YYU FHS) between April 2025 and April 2026. The episiotomy topic is covered theoretically and practically within the Risky Birth and Postpartum Course for third-year midwifery students at YYU FHS. Currently, mannequin models are used for episiotomy practice. The study population will consist of third-year midwifery students at YYU FHS, totaling 90 students. The sample will be composed of students who voluntarily agree to participate and meet inclusion criteria. Sample size was calculated using G\*Power 3.1.9.2 software based on the primary dependent variable-mean self-efficacy scores-yielding a minimum of 38 students per group (VR intervention and control groups), with an effect size of 0.50, power of 0.95, and alpha of 0.05. Participants will be randomized equally into two groups using the Random.org platform to prevent selection bias. Inclusion criteria are: proficiency in Turkish, no prior episiotomy training, and no medical contraindications for VR use (e.g., epilepsy). Data collection tools include: Demographic Information Form Skill Evaluation Form Episiotomy Skills Self-Efficacy Scale (EBÖÖ) Student Satisfaction Survey Data collection will be performed by an independent researcher who is not involved in the intervention delivery or study design. Due to the visible nature of the intervention (VR headset vs. mannequin), full blinding of the outcome assessor is not feasible. However, all evaluations will be conducted using standardized assessment tools to reduce observer bias and ensure objectivity. Assessments will occur pre-training, immediately post-training, and one month after training. The intervention includes a two-day training program. On the first day, all students receive four hours of theoretical instruction on episiotomy. On the second day, the control group practices on traditional mannequins for four hours, while the intervention group trains using the VR simulation for the same duration. The VR simulation immerses students in a virtual delivery room where they perform episiotomy and repair using virtual surgical tools and equipment. The VR setup includes VR goggles, two control handles, motion sensors, and a high-performance computer. The episiotomy mannequin used in the control group realistically simulates perineal anatomy for skill practice. Dependent variables are students' skill performance and self-efficacy scores; the independent variable is the VR-supported episiotomy training. Study limitations include the single-center design with only YYU third-year students and the high cost of VR software and equipment. Data will be analyzed using SPSS 25. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential tests (independent and paired sample t-tests) will be conducted to evaluate group differences and within-group changes. This study is expected to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of VR technology in enhancing midwifery education and propose an innovative training tool for episiotomy skills development.