Using VR to Reducing Pain in a Pediatric Burn Unit

Mad*Pow supported Metrohealth in exploring the integration of VR technology as part of a pediatric burn ward with the objective of improving patient experience and reducing the reliance on medication as a pain remediation solution. We evaluated existing of-the-shelf technology for use in a medical environment including durability, patient accessibility, and ability to maintain and clean hardware. We also explored fit and dexterity requirements understanding the limitations inherit with common burn trauma to both hands and face.

With hardware selected, based on evaluations performed at different age ranges, we also explored content and game options that fit the parameters of distraction techniques utilized as pain mitigation solutions. We selected multiple content types based on patients ability (or inability) to interact with the physical environment, movement range and dexterity. These choices were field tested with patients at Metrohealth and a protocol was developed for future use.

Ultimately Mad*Pow set-out to prove that affordable off the shelf systems combined with new and existing content are available to provide these types of patient services with limited capital investments by healthcare providers.