Clinical Report: Impact of Virtual Reality on Pre-Examination Stress in Nursing Students

Overview

This study evaluates the effects of a 10-minute virtual reality (VR) relaxation intervention on perceived stress and test anxiety among nursing students. Results indicate reductions in both stress and anxiety levels in the intervention group compared to controls.

Background

Pre-examination stress is prevalent among nursing students and can adversely affect their academic performance and emotional well-being. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a tool for stress reduction, providing immersive environments that may enhance relaxation. Understanding the feasibility and acceptability of VR interventions in educational settings is crucial for improving student outcomes.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• VR intervention significantly reduced perceived stress (p = 0.014).
• VR intervention significantly lowered test anxiety (p = 0.002).
• Participants reported high acceptability and ease of using VR.
• The intervention was feasible for implementation before exams.
• Majority of participants were aged 20-21 years and in their third academic year.

Clinical Implications

Integrating VR relaxation techniques into nursing curricula may provide a scalable solution to enhance student well-being during high-pressure academic periods. This approach could improve cognitive readiness and emotional regulation among nursing students.

Conclusion

Further research may explore the long-term benefits of such interventions.

Related Resources & Content

1. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- A randomized controlled trial of virtual reality–based relaxation to reduce pre-exam stress among nursing students
2. ClinicalTrials.gov -- Study Identifier NCT07574203
3. Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) — Virtual Reality Interventions for Stress Reduction in the General Population: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
4. Utilizing Virtual Reality in Surgical Settings: Reducing Patient Stress and Discomfort During Minor Procedures with Local Anesthesia—Findings from a Feasibility Study
5. Journal of Neuro-Oncology — Evaluation of a virtual reality approach for alleviating anxiety and distress in individuals with primary brain tumors: Interim findings from a phase 2 clinical study
6. DIGITAL HEALTH — Efficacy of a mobile-based intervention for newly graduated nurses: A randomized controlled trial
7. Virtual Reality Interventions for Stress Reduction in the General Population
8. Utilizing Virtual Reality in Surgical Settings
9. Nurse-Led Mental Health Interventions for College Students: A Systematic Review
10. https://www.acha.org/wp-content/uploads/NCHA-IIIb_SPRING_2025_REFERENCE_GROUP_INSTITUTIONAL_EXECUTIVE_SUMMARY.pdf
11. Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best PracticeTM Prebriefing: Preparation and Briefing - ScienceDirect
12. National Simulation Guidelines for Prelicensure Nursing Programs | NCSBN
13. Frontiers | A randomized controlled trial of virtual reality–based relaxation to reduce pre-exam stress among nursing students
14. ClinicalTrials.gov
15. The Effects of Immersive Virtual Reality on Nursing Student Anxiety - PubMed
16. The effect of virtual reality-based operating room tour on nursing students' anxiety, stress and self-confidence levels in an operating room setting: A randomized controlled trial - ScienceDirect
17. The effectiveness of virtual reality in enhancing mindfulness: a systematic review and meta-analysis
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