Efektivitas Virtual Reality terhadap Manajemen Gejala pada Anak dengan Kanker yang Menjalani Kemoterapi: Systematic Review

Abstract

Background – Children undergoing chemotherapy frequently experience multidimensional symptoms (including pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, stress, and fear) which negatively affect their overall quality of life. VR as a multisensory distraction-based intervention, has emerged as a promising nonpharmacological approach to alleviate these symptoms. To evaluate the effectiveness of VR in reducing physical and psychological symptoms and in improving quality of life among children receiving chemotherapy.

Methods – This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and SpringerLink (2015–2025). Inclusion criteria comprised full-text quantitative studies (Randomized Controlled Trials and quasi-experimental designs) involving the use of VR in pediatric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or related procedures. Review articles, editorials, and non-relevant studies were excluded. Eight studies met the criteria and were synthesized narratively.

Results – VR consistently reduced procedural pain, anxiety, emotional distress, fear, acute chemotherapy-induced nausea, and fatigue. Additionally, VR improved stress regulation and health-related quality of life, with repeated VR exposure demonstrating greater therapeutic benefit. VR interventions were well tolerated, safe, and accepted by children and their families.

Conclusion – VR is an effective nonpharmacological intervention for managing a range of physical and psychological symptoms in pediatric oncology care and holds strong potential for integration into supportive care practice.