Use of virtual clinical education in emergency nursing care : a scoping review

Abstract

BACKGROUND : Head-mounted devices (HMDs), such as smart glasses, are being implemented to deliver virtual clinical education (VCE) in emergency care, yet their value and practical limitations remain unclear. OBJECTIVE : To synthesise evidence on HMDs enabled VCE usage by healthcare professionals and students in emergency care, and to identify reported benefits and challenges. METHODS : A Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guided scoping review was conducted. Five databases and grey literature sources were searched, without date restrictions, for English-language studies describing HMD use for VCE in emergency care. Sixteen studies met the eligibility criteria. Data were charted and summarised descriptively. RESULTS : Most studies (50%) were published after 2021, originating from high-income countries. Reported advantages included enhanced two-way communication, faster clinical decision-making, hands-free documentation and remote supervision. Recurrent barriers were short battery life, unstable connectivity, restricted field-of-view, hygiene concerns and medicolegal uncertainty. Small sample sizes, heavy reliability of simulated environments and varied use of outcome measures limits generalisability of the findings. CONCLUSION : Early evidence suggests that VCE using HMDs, can enrich emergency care, workflow and teaching, but technical, human-factors and regulatory obstacles persist. Larger, multi-centre studies using standardised metrics and real-world deployment are required before routine adoption can be recommended.

HIGHLIGHTS • Enhanced Real-Time Learning: VCE via HMDs enabled observation and guidance during emergency scenarios. • Improved communication and decision-making: VCE is using HDMs can facilitate rapid information transfer and remote consultations. • Feasibility: Despite technical limitations, HMDs are feasible and practical in emergency care environments. • Global Relevance with Local Adaptation: Global interest was evident, but region-specific trials are needed. • Future Innovation: Findings emphasised the need to refine technology, validate outcomes, and support adoption.