Cruces University Hospital has recently adopted a Virtual Reality solution from one of our partners, VRPharma. These virtual reality glasses aim to reduce the fear and anxiety of children undergoing blood draws, among other services. This innovative approach allows young patients to immerse themselves in relaxing virtual environments, significantly improving their comfort and overall experience during medical procedures.
Nurses at the hospital have reported substantial improvements in patient cooperation and a reduction in anxiety during procedures. They noted that VR technology alleviates patient fear and empowers medical staff by optimising time and improving patient interactions.
Paediatric nurse Leticia Sainz said: “Children relax and enter a virtual world, they don’t even notice the needle. More than 2,500 children a year will benefit from this technology. According to Verónica Ruiz Pereda, Deputy Director of Nursing at Cruces, notes that “nursing is always attentive to the patient’s needs, and VR glasses have proven to be advantageous for both patients and professionals.”
VRPharma’s solution is also being used in the treatment of complex wounds in adults at the same hospital. The aim of this initiative is to assess pain during wound treatment, monitor the evolution of the injury, evaluate the patient experience and analyse the economic impact of using VR. The content is designed to significantly reduce the perception of pain, anxiety and fear by offering patients relief in vulnerable moments, while providing healthcare professionals with a tool that promotes more humane and efficient patient care.
Cruces University Hospital is the first in the Osakidetza network to implement these VRPharma glasses, thus joining other hospitals throughout the country in taking advantage of the benefits of this advanced technology. Verónica Ruiz Pereda, deputy director of nursing at Cruces Hospital, has highlighted that “technology is an integral part of modern nursing, strengthening and improving our capabilities”.
