Simulating success – virtual reality training for tomorrow’s operating theatre nurses: A discussion paper

Eloisa Mae Gabatan

doi:10.26550/2209-1092.1378

Authors

Eloisa Mae Gabatan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26550/2209-1092.1378

Keywords:

virtual reality, operating theatre, patient safety, situational awareness, instrument and circulating nurses, operating theatre nurses

Abstract

The operating theatre represents a complex and critical environment, characterised by the interplay of specialised skills, advanced technology, and the demand for seamless teamwork and smooth operational flow. However, some operating theatre facilities face significant challenges, including understaffing and insufficient educational support, which hinder the effective training of perioperative staff in new specialties and surgical procedures. This gap in training can lead to suboptimal patient outcomes, increased patient risk and surgical complications.

To address these challenges, virtual reality technology emerges as a transformative solution. It provides immersive and hands-on training experiences that can be accessed regardless of staffing levels or resource constraints. Through realistic simulations of surgical procedures, virtual reality allows staff to practice and refine their perioperative skills in a safe and controlled environment, thereby enhancing their competency and confidence. It enables individualised learning, accommodates various surgical techniques, and allows for repeated practice without the risks associated with live surgical procedures.

Virtual reality enhances skill retention and procedural confidence among surgical teams, contributing to improved performance and workflow in the operating room. Through virtual reality integration, healthcare institutions can bridge the gap in training, empowering perioperative staff with the expertise needed to adapt to evolving surgical demands. It not only fosters professional development but also enhances overall patient safety and surgical outcomes.

Furthermore, as the complexity of surgical procedures continues to advance, leveraging virtual reality in the operating theatre can provide a pathway to overcoming staffing and resource limitations. Through virtual reality integration, healthcare systems can ensure that perioperative teams are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care, benefiting both practitioners and patients. This discussion paper aims to explore the impact of virtual reality in training theatre nurses, highlighting its effectiveness in skill acquisition, improving theatre nurses’ confidence and reducing anxiety, and its potential to enhance situational awareness and patient safety.

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