HMD-Based Virtual Reality Simulation in Nursing Skills Education

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of head-mounted display (HMD)-based interactive virtual reality simulation, an innovative educational technology in nursing education, on nursing students' skill performance, anxiety levels, satisfaction, and self-confidence during ice pack application. Methods: This study is designed as a randomized controlled trial. The study population will consist of undergraduate nursing students enrolled at a public university in northeastern Türkiye during the 2026-2027 academic year. Based on a statistical power analysis, a total of 90 nursing students will be recruited and randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n = 45) or the control group (n = 45). Students in the experimental group will perform ice pack application using an HMD-based interactive virtual reality simulation, whereas students in the control group will perform the same procedure using a low-fidelity training mannequin. Data will be collected using the Student Information Form, Ice Pack Application Skills Checklist, Student Satisfaction and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale (SCLS), and Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Statistical analyses will be performed using SPSS version 25.0. Ethical approval (15.04.2026/07) institutional permission have been obtained. Both verbal and written informed consent will be obtained from all participants before their inclusion in the study.

Inclusion Criteria: * Being 18 years of age or older. * Being a first-year undergraduate nursing student enrolled in the Fundamentals and Concepts of Nursing course. * Having no previous theoretical or practical training or experience in ice pack application. * Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study and providing written informed consent. * Being willing to participate in the standardized theoretical education, demonstration, and assigned practical training sessions. Exclusion Criteria: * Being younger than 18 years of age. * Having previously received theoretical or practical training in ice pack application. * Declining to participate in the study or refusing to provide written informed consent. * Not attending the standardized theoretical education or demonstration required before the intervention.