Harnessing virtual reality simulation in training healthcare workers in handling patients with suspected COVID-19 infections: results of training and lessons learned about design

Abstract Virtual Reality (VR) simulation-based training can be a quick and effective way to train healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic by creating life-like scenarios whilst maintaining safety measures. This study examines the lessons learned from VR simulation training to prepare HCWs to work in COVID-19 departments and use personal protective equipment correctly. A total of 32 participants (N = 32) participated in this study. This study involved two VR scenarios with each two self-evaluation questionnaires and observations during the training. Structured interviews were conducted six weeks after the second scenario. Participants reported experiencing immersiveness after completing the VR training and reported perceiving the training as useful for their professional practice. The scenarios were not always perceived as relevant. The effects of transfer from simulation to professional practice are inconclusive. The potential of VR simulation-based training to train HCWs to work with COVID-19 is considerable but investing more time on the front end of design is recommended. Therefore, we present four lessons about design as guidelines for future work. This study shows the propensity to design solutions instantaneously during a pandemic tempts us to bypass the usual stages of an iterative design process, but that urgency to act should not be a licence to improvise.