Abstract: PUB082
Evaluating the Acceptability and Feasibility of a Low-Sodium Educational Program Using Immersive Virtual Reality in Patients on Hemodialysis: A Study Protocol
Session Information
Category: Augmented Intelligence, Digital Health, and Data Science
- 300 Augmented Intelligence, Digital Health, and Data Science
Authors
- Hasankhani, Milad, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
- Martin-Alemañy, Geovana, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
- Pawelczyk, Kaitlyn, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States
- Wilund, Kenneth Robert, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States
Background
About 80% of hemodialysis (HD) patients in the U.S. have uncontrolled hypertension, primarily due to chronic volume overload. HD patients are often prescribed low-sodium diets to prevent thirst and fluid accumulation. However, the poor compliance highlights the pressing need for innovative strategies to reduce sodium intake to minimize cardiovascular risks associated with HD.
Methods
This study employs an exploratory, non-randomized, open-label trial using a mixed-methods approach. Twenty patients who meet the inclusion criteria will be provided access to the VR program during their regular dialysis sessions. The program includes five educational modules, each approximately thirty minutes, and incorporating interactive games and other knowledge building activities in an engaging environment to help patients learn low-sodium meal planning and shopping. Oculus Quest 2 headsets will be used to deliver the VR experience, ensuring patient safety and comfort. Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected through surveys measuring engagement, satisfaction, VR content quality, and sodium-related knowledge.
Results
Results will focus on the acceptability and feasibility of the low-sodium educational program delivered through immersive virtual reality. The target rates for recruitment, retention, and adherence are set at or above 75%. The study anticipates a positive impact on participants' dietary sodium knowledge post-intervention.
Conclusion
This program has the potential to advance HD patient’s knowledge on better management of their dietary sodium intake and related health conditions, with implications for broader applications of VR in health education and patient engagement.