Evaluating Virtual Reality as a feasible and acceptable learning strategy in midwifery and obstetrics using a birthing simulation.

PROBLEM: Perineal tears remain an intractable problem in maternity services and can have a significant negative effect on women's recovery in the postnatal period.

BACKGROUND

An evidence-based Perineal Protection Bundle© (the 'Bundle') was developed to guide clinicians towards standardised best practise. The study setting saw static severe perineal tear rates post the Bundle implementation, instigating the creation of a Virtual Reality (VR) simulation to address best practice in perineal care.

METHODS

A pre-post study assessed whether a VR simulation training package improved knowledge of perineal care and the Bundle. Acceptability of the simulation for midwifery and obstetric clinicians and their confidence in clinical skill was also assessed using survey items post-simulation.

FINDINGS: The post-VR period compared to pre-VR showed a substantial improvement in clinicians' knowledge (p < .001). Individuals with prior VR experience demonstrated higher interaction with the simulation (mean = 9.13, SD = 0.90) than those who did not. A reduction in severe perineal tears was evident a year post-simulation. Clinicians reported an above-average experience and acceptance of the VR simulation.

DISCUSSION: Other studies have found similar acceptance of VR simulations to improve knowledge and skills within maternity services. These appear helpful and acceptable for users to experience and enhance their clinical practice despite some physical symptoms reported such as dizziness.

CONCLUSION

VR as a training tool is acceptable for clinicians, supporting knowledge and skill acquisition and confidence. Future research should aim to examine the sustained impact of VR training on perineal tear rates during childbirth and evaluate long-term knowledge retention.