TY  - JOUR
AU  - Karunaratne, Dilroshini
AU  - Whittock, Jessica
AU  - Moore, Amber
AU  - Dasigan, Krishna
AU  - Chevolleau, Jasmine
AU  - Bartholomew, Brent
AU  - Kelly, Nikki
AU  - Cohen, Charlotte E
PY  - 2025
DA  - 2025/3/19
TI  - Exploring the Use of an Augmented Reality Device Learning Tool for Multidisciplinary Staff Training on Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence: Postintervention Qualitative Evaluation
JO  - JMIR Form Res
SP  - e60075
VL  - 9
KW  - augmented reality
KW  - virtual reality
KW  - medical technology
KW  - domestic abuse
KW  - sexual violence
KW  - medical education
KW  - training
KW  - domestic violence
KW  - violence
KW  - assault
KW  - victim
KW  - survivor-centered
KW  - staff
KW  - community stakeholders
KW  - social care
KW  - innovation
AB  - Background: Legislative policies published by National Health Service, England and the UK Government focus on prioritizing the creation of a stronger system. These frameworks emphasize on the improvement of health care staff’s ability to identify and refer domestic abuse (DA) survivors as key areas for supporting workforce development. Health care staff are often the first professional contact of survivors of DA, and insufficient staff training is a key barrier to survivors being identified and directed to support. The Microsoft HoloLens2 is a mixed-reality headset that allows virtual objects (holograms) to be integrated into the real world. Mixed-reality headsets are being increasingly used within medical education and have the advantage of independent operation, reducing the staffing requirements for teaching. The HoloLens2 can be used to project HoloPatients (HPs), which resemble clinically unwell patients, into the classroom. Two of these HPs have been specifically designed to portray survivors of DA and sexual violence (SV). Objective: This study explored potential uses of the HP in DA and SV training as a potential survivor-centered educational initiative that could be used as an adjunct to existing training for health care professionals and community sector workers. Methods: Frontline staff and community stakeholders from the national health service, DA, and law enforcement sectors were invited on 3 separate occasions (n=14, 12, 22) to a HoloLens2 demonstration that displayed 9 HPs. The patient voice was to be outlined by personalized scripts, co-created alongside sector charities, ensuring survivor engagement and participation. Participants were given the opportunity to wear the headset and familiarize themselves with the technology during the sessions. A post-intervention evaluation research model was used to explore the feasibility and functionality of the HP as an educational tool. Results: Thematic analysis described the HP as a “realistic,” “adjustable” tool that “creates a safe learning environment.” Participants suggested it could be useful in “pre-exposure preparation” by “improving communication” and allowing different approaches to be trialed in a safe environment. The use of survivor scripts was described as a useful tool to “bring the survivor into the learning space” in a safe way. Participants identified the HP as a suitable tool for workers inside and outside health care, including social sectors such as law enforcement (32%). Conclusions: The HP acts as a low-risk, adaptable tool for trainees to develop skills in a safe environment. This study demonstrates that professionals perceived the HoloLens as an innovative means to amplify the lived experience voice. Further research will evaluate this additional impact on trainees’ confidence and responses to survivors disclosing DA and SV within different disciplines to drive improved outcomes. Trial Registration: Permission to conduct this study granted by the Research Innovation and Quality Improvement Team at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust 
SN  - 2561-326X
UR  - https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e60075
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2196/60075
DO  - 10.2196/60075
ID  - info:doi/10.2196/60075
ER  -