Virtual practice of needle-handling training

VR training in sharp-handling

Functions and advantages: A virtual reality (VR) headset simulates scenes in the operating theatre and on the ward to train employees in the handling of sharps and the precautions needed to avoid needle stick injuries. Using a VR headset for training requires less space as it does not involve the use of an operating theatre, and is safer.



Sharp injuries can pose a potential risk of infection and should not be overlooked. Needle Stick Injury (NSI) training is an important element of training for hospital staff. Since 2021, Kwong Wah Hospital has cooperated with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University to add VR elements into training, making it safer and more engaging.

“In the past, we had to book operating theatre in advance for NSI training. The new VR devices only require an area of movement of about two metres by two metres, so we can now flexibly arrange the location and time of the training and reserve the operating theatre for patients in need, which is very much welcomed by our colleagues,” explains Advanced Practice Nurse Ng Chi-tak of Department of Anaesthesiology and Operation Theatre Services. He adds that participants can see the simulated scenarios through the headset. Instructors can include special events to simulate accidents that may occur when removing or handling sharps, and practise ways to clean up the scene and avoid injury. The virtual course can be repeated as many times as necessary and reduces the training materials required such as syringes and gloves.

Nearly 200 medical staff have completed virtual training courses at the hospital and say the immersive experience helps them to remember procedures more effectively and makes the learning process more enjoyable.