Virtual Reality (VR) is the simulation of a real environment generated by a computer software and experienced by the user through glasses that are slid over the head. VR is already known for its use in the entertainment and technology industry, but there is a growing interest in the use of VR for medical purposes. Also in the field of rehabilitation, virtual reality rehabilitation (VRR) has been studied in different patient populations, with beneficial effect.
For intensive care, VRR is a new but promising application domain. Patients in intensive care (IC) need specific medical care and rehabilitation. Critically ill patients who are in an intensive care for a long time (8 or more days) often show a severe muscle weakness caused by being critically ill in itself.
The importance and benefits of starting rehabilitation as soon as possible has been undeniably established in the literature. Early mobilization and exercises during the stay at IC prevents the occurrence of muscle weakness or reduces its onset, shortens the duration of the stay at IC and improves functionality.
In addition to the muscle problems, changes in the brain or impaired mental functioning can also occur in IC patients.
A rehabilitation program for ICU patients that stimulates memory and attention, combined with physical and functional training, could potentially be effective in improving mental performance and functional outcomes.
The investigators will record the time required for the setup, learning, use and cleaning of the advanced device, and note any problems that delay this process. Patients will be encouraged to report any type of problem (technical, medical, emotional) at any time (before/during/after the procedure). Any problem spontaneously reported by the patient will be registered. The study will cover the virtual world in a closed headset, completely blocking any other vision, while the patient will be encouraged/triggered to move the arms. The feasibility and safety of using such a closed VR headset on IC patients during rehabilitation exercises is being studied.
Many of the VR modules available today are focused on passive forms of VR, with the aim of relaxation. With this project, the investigators created an interactive ICU-specific VRR app, using a closed VR headset, to stimulate motivation for muscle and attention training in ICU patients through a game.
The exercise program will be gradually build up from low to medium training intensity. Only the therapist (and not the patient) can change the level of difficulty/intensity, so that a correct training intensity is guaranteed.
With this study the investigators want to test whether this form of support of exercise therapy is feasible and safe in Intensive Care. The investigators also want to test whether the patient and the physiotherapist / occupational therapist remain motivated with this VRR for exercise therapy, also for bedridden ICU patients with a long stay.
