Topics and skills for immersive learning transformation

This detailed exploration focuses on specific skills that can be learned and refined in various areas of surgical training through VR (Table 6).

In the realm of surgical procedures, the operating room (OR) serves as a critical environment where meticulous preparation and coordination among the surgical team are paramount. Understanding the layout and zones of the operating room is essential for ensuring the efficient movement of both staff and patients. By creating a detailed 3D model of an operating room, students can explore different zones and familiarize themselves with the layout. This immersive experience allows for the implementation of scenarios where students must navigate the OR efficiently, simulating real-life movements of staff and patients. They may encounter operating rooms with various architectural designs and layouts, enabling them to adapt to different conditions effectively.

Developing VR simulations where students can assume various roles within the surgical team fosters an understanding of each member’s responsibilities and enhances teamwork skills. This preparation helps students acclimate to the operating room environment before engaging in actual clinical practice.

Preparation for surgery involves several critical steps, including performing a surgical hand scrub, donning sterile gowns, and employing proper gloving techniques to maintain surgical asepsis. VR technology can guide students through these processes, using interactive prompts to reinforce proper aseptic techniques. Additionally, VR provides a controlled setting for students to practice skin disinfection and covering techniques, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a sterile surgical field.

A thorough understanding of surgical instruments is essential for any medical professional. Each instrument serves a specific purpose, and preparing the instrument kit for various procedures is important task. Familiarity with different medical devices, including how to operate and adjust them, is necessary for the smooth execution of surgical interventions. Creating a virtual toolkit allows students to learn about various surgical instruments, their functions, and how to prepare instrument kits for different procedures. Simulating the operation of medical devices enables students to practice turning them on, off, and adjusting their functions in a risk-free environment.

Taking a patient’s medical history is a fundamental step in the surgical process. This involves interviewing the patient, observing their behavior, and conducting a physical examination using techniques such as inspection, percussion, palpation, and auscultation. In the near future, AI and haptic devices will facilitate the creation of VR modules that allow students to interact with virtual patients in a much more realistic manner, enhancing their skills in medical history collection and palpation.

Surgical interventions can range from basic clinical procedures to complex operations. Effective communication with the patient is vital throughout this process, ensuring they are informed and comfortable. Detailed simulations of various surgical interventions can be developed, covering everything from basic procedures to intricate operations. Incorporating real-time feedback during these simulations can help students refine their techniques and decision-making skills, ultimately preparing them for successful clinical practice.

Table 6. Topics and skills for immersive learning transformation.

Topic	Subject	Skills
Operating room layout	Zones of operating room	Getting to know the environment. Movement of staff and patients.
	Main equipment	Basic equipment in the operating room and its purpose.
	Surgical team	Introduction to the surgical team. Roles and responsibilities of its members.
Preparation for surgery	Preparation of the surgeon and other staff for the operation.	Surgical hand scrub. Gowning. Gloving techniques. Surgical asepsis skills.
	Preparation of surgical field	Skin disinfection techniques. Covering surgical field.
Instruments and devices	Instruments	Different surgical instruments and it purpose. Preparing the instrument kit for different procedures. Choice of instruments for different indications.
	Devices	Working with various devices, turning them on, off, and adjusting functions. Technique for connecting sterile and non-sterile parts.
Medical history and physical examination	Interview various scenarios	Conversation Behavior observation
	Physical examination	Inspection, percussion, palpation, auscultation Basic and disease specific techniques
Surgical intervention	Basic clinical procedures and preparation for them	Communication with the patient Gastric sounding Enema Bladder catheterization Puncture Incision Drainage
	Open and minimal invasive surgical operations	Surgical operations according to specialty Preparation, manipulations, different techniques.

Integrating these skills into a VR environment not only enhances the learning experience for medical students but also prepares them for real-world clinical practice. By simulating the complexities of the operating room and surgical procedures, students can build confidence, improve their technical skills, and develop a deeper understanding of patient care in a safe manner—all essential for their future roles as healthcare providers.