Development of a multi-skill, haptic-supported virtual reality simulation for first-year nursing students: a pilot study

Virtual reality and haptic systems offer interactive learning opportunities by enabling students to apply knowledge in a safe and controlled environment. Haptic systems, consisting of wearable modules with tactile sensors, provide realistic touch feedback when worn on the hands and fingertips, thereby enhancing the practice of psychomotor skills. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a multi-skill (physical assessment, vital signs, blood sugar measurement, oxygen therapy, aspiration and nasogastric catheter application, and subcutaneous injection) and haptic-supported virtual reality simulation designed for nursing education. The study was conducted as a three-phase methodological design focusing on the development and integration of a haptic-supported virtual reality simulation for nursing education. In phase one, scenarios were developed, a virtual reality training environment was created using the Unity Game Engine, and a haptic device was designed and integrated into the environment. In phase two, software was developed to link the virtual models with the sensor systems, and scenario steps were implemented using gamification. In phase three, the virtual reality simulation environment was evaluated with 20 nursing students using the Presence Questionnaire. Presence Questionnaire is the subjective measurement of the level of immersiveness in 3D virtual environments. The participants had a mean age of 22.6 ± 7 years, 55% were female, and 70% were first-year students. The mean score of participants’ prior virtual reality experience was 3.65 ± 2.08, and the mean Presence Questionnaire score was 124 ± 13.54. A haptic-assisted virtual reality simulation was successfully designed and developed for nursing education. The integration of haptic devices with force sensors on the thumb and index fingers enhanced the sense of realism in nursing skill practice. While participants’ prior virtual reality experience was moderate, the high Presence Questionnaire scores suggest that the developed simulation environment provides an effective and immersive learning experience.