Edinburgh Napier University

  This proposal seeks funding to acquire the latest generation virtual reality (VR) headsets to evaluate and enhance VR applications designed for haemodialysis training. Haemodialysis is a life-sustaining therapy for patients with end-stage kidney disease, requiring both patients and medical staff to acquire comprehensive knowledge and skills. VR has proven effective in delivering engaging, interactive, and risk-free training environments. However, advancements in VR technology, including improved hardware capabilities such as higher resolution, enhanced motion tracking, and greater comfort, necessitate continuous updates to ensure training applications remain effective, immersive, and accessible.

By integrating cutting-edge VR hardware, this project aims to assess the impact of next-generation headsets on the usability, realism, and learning outcomes of our currently developed VR haemodialysis training programs. The evaluation will inform the development of future-proof applications that take full advantage of emerging VR technologies, ensuring scalability and compatibility with upcoming advancements. Furthermore, the project will explore innovative features such as haptic feedback and spatial audio to enhance realism and engagement.

The findings will support the long-term viability of VR dialysis (haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) training and position the institution amongst the leaders in digital health innovation. This initiative directly addresses the growing need for accessible, efficient, and high-quality training solutions in healthcare education.