Seven-year-old Everly Farris faced a long and potentially scary medical procedure: a cardiac MRI. An MRI requires a patient to lie perfectly still for an extended period inside a closed machine. This can be frightening for young children.
However, thanks to cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology, Everly was able to complete her MRI without sedation. Children's of Mississippi, the state's only children's hospital, uses VR headsets to help children cope with lengthy imaging procedures.
The VR headsets allow children to watch a preview of what an MRI is like before their procedure. Then, during the MRI, they can watch a movie or show of their choice. This immersive experience takes their mind off the MRI and makes the procedure much less frightening.
Everly chose to watch a Star Wars movie during her MRI. The VR goggles blocked out the sights and sounds of the MRI machine, and she was able to focus on her movie and stay still for the entire procedure.
"We were worried about whether she'd have to be sedated to do it," said Everly's father, Kyle Farris. "But the VR headset helped her to stay still and relaxed. We are so grateful for this technology."
This breakthrough application of XR in healthcare showcases its potential to:
Reduce Anxiety: The immersive experience helps patients, especially children, overcome fears associated with medical procedures.
Minimize Sedation: By keeping patients calm and still, XR can reduce the need for sedation, lowering risks and costs.
Enhance Patient Education: VR allows patients to preview procedures, improving understanding and cooperation.
Improve Pain Management: The distraction provided by XR can serve as a non-pharmacological pain management tool.
Increase Efficiency: Patients remaining still during procedures can lead to quicker, more accurate scans.
The hospital's investment in Kind VR and Cinemavision goggles, funded by a $70,000 Child's Play grant, represents a commitment to leveraging technology for patient-centered care. Child life specialist Madeline Wilson notes the significant impact, with children describing their MRIs as "fun" - a stark contrast to the typical anxiety-inducing experience.
The VR headsets are making a big difference for children undergoing MRIs at Children. They are helping to reduce anxiety and make the procedure more comfortable for young patients.
"These goggles are one of the many components that make a children's hospital a children's hospital," said Madeline Wilson, a child life specialist at Children's of Mississippi. "They help children overcome their fears and eventually say 'I did it!'"
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