Virtual Reality in Pediatric Care
Helping Patients Through Immersive Technology
As a UX researcher and volunteer at the K.I.D.S. Foundation, I contributed to a pioneering initiative exploring virtual reality as an anxiety-reduction tool for pediatric oncology patients. Working within a collaborative team, I participated in the research phase that laid the foundation for developing VR animation scenario.
Client
Memorial Health Institute
Services
UX research
Industries
Healthcare
Using a combination of ethnographic research, diary studies, and in-depth interviews, we collected data from child patients, their parents, and staff nurses. This triangulated approach allowed us to capture the complete ecosystem of care, including the emotional journey of young patients, the concerns of parents, and the practical insights of medical professionals who administer the venipuncture procedures daily.
Turning Data into Insights: Key VR Design Requirements. Our comprehensive research revealed five essential design requirements for an effective pediatric VR experience during venipuncture procedures: + Communication & Control –children must maintain auditory connection with nurses during the procedure, creating a bridge between virtual and clinical reality. + Adaptability – animation content requires flexibility (short, long, and looped versions) to accommodate varying procedure durations. + Safety & Comfort – minimal movement requirements and standardized protocols for headset placement and disinfection are necessary for clinical integration. + Staff Training – medical professionals need comprehensive guidance to confidently incorporate VR technology into established workflows. + Parental Involvement – for highly anxious children, parental assistance with the VR headset provides additional comfort and security. On the basis of these insights, we decided to distinguish three types of patients (categorized by assessed pain intensity) instead of using traditional personas. This approach allowed us to design targeted interventions based on clinical needs rather than demographic profiles. We also determined the experience should extend beyond the hospital visit through waiting room materials, character-themed items, and parent resources.