VR headsets enhancing paediatric care at Portiuncula University Hospital

Children receiving care at Portiuncula University Hospital Ballinasloe are benefiting from the introduction of new virtual reality (VR) headsets, an innovative technology designed to reduce anxiety and improve the hospital experience for young patients.

The system, called Smileyscope, uses immersive VR storytelling to help distract and relax children during procedures such as blood tests, cannulation, and vaccinations.

By transporting young patients into engaging, interactive worlds, the headset helps shift their focus away from the clinical environment and potentially uncomfortable procedures.

Clinical teams report that the introduction of the headsets is having a clear and positive impact. Many children are calmer and more comfortable during procedures, helping to reduce distress for both patients and their families.

The technology has proven particularly effective in managing needle phobia and injection anxiety, providing distraction during blood tests and cannulation, and promoting relaxation during imaging procedures or pre-operative care.

Play specialists and nursing staff have welcomed the technology as an additional tool to support child-centred care. By combining clinical expertise with innovative distraction techniques, the hospital continues to prioritise both emotional wellbeing and high-quality treatment.

Carly Smith, Assistant Director of Nursing for Paediatrics at the hospital said: “We are always looking for ways to make the hospital experience as positive as possible for children and their families. The introduction of Smileyscope is a wonderful example of how innovation can support compassionate, child-centred care. Seeing children feel calmer and more confident during procedures is incredibly encouraging for both staff and families."

Ann Marie Furlong, Clinical Nurse Manager II in Paediatrics said, “The Smileyscope is one of the most used pieces of equipment on our ward. It helps turn fear into confidence, giving children a sense of calm and control during procedures through immersive distraction and gentle preparation.”

Speaking about her son’s experience using Smileyscope, Theresa Hynes said: “As a parent, seeing your child need a medical procedure like blood tests can be stressful and it’s never easy watching them feel anxious or upset. However, using the Smilescope made a remarkable difference for us.

“When Luke used it in the children’s ward, it immediately shifted his focus away from what was happening around him. Instead of worrying about the procedure, he was completely absorbed in what he was seeing through the headset. It turned what could have been a frightening experience into something much calmer and more manageable.

“My daughter had a similar experience in the emergency department while getting her bloods taken. She was fully distracted and engaged, which meant the procedure was over quickly and with far less distress. As a parent, the relief of seeing her relaxed instead of scared is hard to put into words.

“Smilescope didn’t just help the children, it made the whole process easier for everyone involved, including the medical staff and us as parents. It reduced anxiety, minimised upset, and helped create a much more positive experience in what would otherwise be a difficult moment "

The introduction of Smileyscope at Portiuncula University Hospital reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing patient experience and embracing new approaches that make hospital visits less frightening for children, helping to turn moments of fear into moments of bravery.