Extended reality head-mounted displays show mixed knowledge gains and high satisfaction in US medical and nursing education.

A systematic review examined 29 studies conducted in U.S.-based medical and nursing educational settings. The analysis focused on extended reality head-mounted displays (XRHMD), encompassing virtual, augmented, and mixed reality technologies, compared against traditional instructional methods. Primary outcomes assessed included learner satisfaction, knowledge gains, and feasibility, while secondary outcomes covered specific applications such as anatomy instruction, procedural rehearsal, emergency response, and surgical training.

Main results regarding knowledge gains were mixed. Approximately 60% of the included studies demonstrated improvement in learner knowledge compared to traditional methods. Conversely, other studies within the review demonstrated no significant advantage over traditional methods for knowledge acquisition. Regarding learner satisfaction, the evidence consistently reported high levels of satisfaction among participants using XRHMD. Secondary outcomes highlighted enhanced engagement, improved spatial understanding, and opportunities for repeated, standardized practice across various training modules.

Safety and tolerability data indicated that mild physiological side effects, such as dizziness and visual strain, occurred in some instances. No serious adverse events or discontinuations were reported in the reviewed literature. However, the review identified several limitations, including technical constraints like battery life and connectivity issues, as well as ergonomic concerns. The need for further longitudinal and standardized research was explicitly noted to address these gaps.

The practice relevance of these findings suggests that XRHMD is a feasible and educationally valuable modality. Its greatest impact appears within blended, mastery-oriented health care education curricula. Clinicians and educators should interpret these results cautiously, recognizing that the technology is not yet superior to traditional methods in all contexts and requires careful integration to mitigate technical and physiological limitations.