Virtual Reality-Based Breathing Exercise Before Angiography in Children

hildren undergoing angiography frequently experience anxiety before the procedure, which may negatively affect physiological parameters and procedural cooperation. Although pharmacological approaches are commonly used to reduce anxiety, they may be associated with adverse effects and are not always necessary. Virtual reality (VR)-based guided breathing exercises offer a non-pharmacological approach that combines immersive distraction with breathing techniques to promote relaxation.

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of a VR-based guided breathing exercise administered before angiography on anxiety and physiological parameters in children aged 9-18 years. A total of 60 participants will be randomly assigned to either a VR-based guided breathing exercise group or a standard care group. Anxiety and physiological parameters, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and body temperature, will be assessed before and after the intervention. The findings of this study may provide evidence for the use of VR-based guided breathing exercises as a safe and effective nursing intervention to reduce pre-procedural anxiety in pediatric patients.