Towards An A ordable Solution for Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation Training Using Virtual Reality

Abstract

Abstract Virtual Reality (VR) is frequently used in the implementation of simulation based training activities. One eld in which its power can be utilized well is in the eld of medicine. This study implements a VR based application to train emergency medical personnel in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), a life saving activity that is a mandatory skill for those involved in Emergency Medicine (EM). The study has utilized VR devices available in the consumer market, speci cally the HTC Vive and the Leap Motion, to build this application. Using these technologies a mechanical manikin that is currently used in CPR training is enhanced in this research in order to provide users with an immersive training experience. While it is feasible to build such an application, the inherent limitations of the devices used in this study have to be overcome using some manipulations at the code level of the application. The tangible nature of this implementation improves the user's perception of the simulation. The outcome of this research has been the enhancement of the mechanical manikin with VR by providing an immersive experience with compressions performed on a more realistic approximation of a patient, by ways of humanoid avatar, than the mechanical manikin, which only provides a torso. Another enhancement is the feedback provided to the user, paving the way for a self-learning application. This enhancement has been well received by those who are pro cient in CPR, as well as by those who are novices in CPR. The success of this enhancement is established through the feedback provided by the above mentioned target users which states that this application provides a more realistic and immersive training experience over the mechanical manikin. Thereby, a platform has been established for further research into improving this application.