Pain, tension, and anxiety are complaints that almost everyone experiences at some point, whether at home or in the hospital. Virtual Reality (VR) can help by providing distraction, promoting relaxation, and guiding exercises. However, the success of VR strongly depends on who uses it, where, and how. This thesis investigated VR in a range of healthcare settings, including at home, on hospital wards, in the emergency department, and during day treatments. The studies showed that personal characteristics, digital skills, and patients’ expectations influence how VR is used and experienced. Guidance, technical support, and good integration into the care process are also essential. The physical environment and study design further affect both use and measurable outcomes. Personalization, training of healthcare staff, and flexible research methods increase the likelihood of success. When used appropriately, VR can be a valuable addition to care and support patients’ recovery.
Tjitske Groenveld (1996) graduated in 2020 in medicine from Radboud University. She then worked as a resident in emergency care and surgery at Ziekenhuis de Gelderse Vallei and Radboudumc. In 2021, she began her PhD research at the Department of Surgery at Radboudumc. She currently a resident in Intensive Care at Radboudumc.