Effects of Virtual Reality on Anxiety, Stress, and Work Performance in ICU Nurses

Intensive care unit (ICU) nurses often experience high levels of stress and anxiety due to the emotional demands of caring for critically ill patients. These psychological burdens can negatively affect their job performance and the quality of care they provide. Recent studies suggest that immersive virtual reality (IVR) technology may help reduce stress and improve professional performance among healthcare workers. However, no study to date has specifically evaluated the effects of IVR on ICU nurses' anxiety, stress, and job performance. This study aims to evaluate whether an IVR application can reduce anxiety and stress levels while enhancing the job performance of ICU nurses. By introducing a clinical intervention based on virtual reality, the research seeks to explore its potential as a practical tool in improving nurses' well-being and work effectiveness in high-pressure environments. The findings will contribute to understanding the clinical applicability of IVR as a stress-reduction and performance-enhancement method in intensive care settings.