Scoping insights into the application of virtual reality in patient care and clinical practice

Virtual reality (VR) describes the use of a 3-dimensional, computer-generated, interactive, immersive simulation environment. Through headsets and sensory feedback, VR aims to create a sense of presence within a virtual environment, in which the user feels mentally immersed, interacts with the simulation, and becomes part of that environment. Interactivity and multisensory integration—visual, tactile, auditory, and olfactory—are fundamental concepts in VR. Users can manipulate objects, complete sequences of actions, and interact with virtual characters in a realistic manner while fully engaged in this virtual world [1,2]. VR environments can support the personalization of learning to individual needs and make complex topics more approachable. Evidence indicates that the use of visual aids makes risk information easier to understand and recall, particularly among vulnerable groups such as older adults, high-risk patients, and individuals with limited medical knowledge. Furthermore, VR content can be made available in multiple languages, which may help individuals who face literacy and language barriers [3-5].