Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The use of virtual reality (VR) technology in healthcare settings has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the field of pain management. This study aimed to investigate the impact of VR technology on pain management in pediatric patients undergoing medical procedures. The research was guided by the following objectives to explore the background of VR technology in healthcare, to identify the specific problem of pain management in pediatric patients, to determine the objectives of using VR technology in pain management, to address the limitations and scope of the study, to highlight the significance of the study, and to provide a structured overview of the thesis. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the study, outlining the background of VR technology in healthcare, presenting the problem statement related to pain management in pediatric patients, stating the research objectives, discussing the limitations and scope of the study, emphasizing the significance of the research, and outlining the structure of the thesis. Chapter 2 consists of a comprehensive literature review that explores ten key studies related to the use of VR technology in pain management, focusing on pediatric patients undergoing medical procedures. The review covers various aspects of VR technology, its application in healthcare, its effectiveness in pain reduction, and the experiences of pediatric patients using VR during medical procedures. Chapter 3 details the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, data collection methods, sample selection criteria, ethical considerations, data analysis techniques, and limitations of the research methodology. The chapter also discusses the theoretical framework underpinning the study and justifies the chosen methodology. Chapter 4 presents a detailed discussion of the findings obtained from the research study. The chapter analyzes the impact of VR technology on pain management in pediatric patients undergoing medical procedures, explores the effectiveness of VR interventions in reducing pain perception, and discusses the implications of the findings for clinical practice and future research. Chapter 5 offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, highlighting the key findings, discussing the implications of the research for healthcare practice, and suggesting recommendations for further research in the field of VR technology and pain management in pediatric patients. Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of literature on the use of VR technology as a non-pharmacological intervention for pain management in pediatric healthcare settings.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Investigating the Impact of Virtual Reality Technology on Pain Management in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Medical Procedures" aims to explore the potential benefits of utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology as a non-pharmacological intervention to manage pain in pediatric patients during medical procedures. This research seeks to address the significant challenge of pain management in pediatric healthcare settings, particularly during invasive procedures that can be distressing and anxiety-inducing for young patients. The use of VR technology in healthcare has gained attention in recent years for its ability to distract and engage patients, potentially reducing the perception of pain and anxiety. In the context of pediatric care, where minimizing pain and discomfort is crucial for the overall well-being and recovery of young patients, exploring the effectiveness of VR technology in this population is essential. This research overview will delve into the current landscape of pain management in pediatric healthcare, highlighting the limitations and challenges faced by healthcare providers in effectively addressing pain in young patients undergoing medical procedures. It will also review the existing literature on the use of VR technology in pain management across various patient populations, emphasizing the potential benefits and outcomes associated with its implementation. The project will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative measures such as pain scores and physiological indicators with qualitative assessments of patient experience and satisfaction. By collecting data on pain levels, anxiety levels, and overall patient comfort before, during, and after medical procedures, this study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the impact of VR technology on pain management outcomes in pediatric patients. Furthermore, the research will consider factors such as patient age, procedure type, and previous experience with VR technology to explore potential variations in the effectiveness of VR interventions. The study will also assess the feasibility and practicality of integrating VR technology into existing pediatric healthcare settings, considering factors such as cost, accessibility, and staff training requirements. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute valuable insights to the field of pediatric pain management by investigating the role of VR technology as a non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing the care and comfort of pediatric patients undergoing medical procedures. By shedding light on the potential benefits and challenges associated with implementing VR technology in pediatric healthcare settings, this project aims to inform healthcare practices and policies aimed at improving pain management outcomes for young patients.