Patient Agatha Vlahogenis tries out the new virtual reality headset with mum, Deanna and registered nurse, Edward Dela Cuesta looking on.

Staff in TPCH’s Children’s Emergency Department are using virtual reality technology to help reduce the anxiety levels of children when they visit hospital.

The Virtual Reality headsets, which are worn like goggles, provide an interactive experience for children who can immerse themselves in a range of different worlds or environments including pandas, penguins and even a gondola ride in Venice.

The technology allows children to be distracted while they undergo tests and procedures, and gives them the opportunity to have fun during their visit to the ED.

Children’s Emergency Department Clinical Director, Dr David Wood said that the virtual reality headsets are invaluable in a busy Children’s Emergency department.

“Hospital can be a very scary place for children. They are busy, noisy, and there’s lots of unfamiliar people, all of which can be quite overwhelming for children, especially when they are feeling unwell. These headsets give children a chance to escape from the hospital environment while they are being treated, and help keep them calm,” he said.

“We have found that the headsets are also beneficial for parents or family members who can also find it distressing when their little one has a needle or undergoes a medical procedure.

The headsets, which were introduced last year, were purchased by the Common Good using funds from the National Curing Homesickness initiative and its major partner, Coles.