Virtual Reality Module Depicting Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection as Educational Tool to Reduce Antibiotic Resistant Hospital-Acquired Bacterial Infections

Abstract

Introduction: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are used as simulation models in student-patient interactive medical education and shown to enhance learning outcomes. The rise in global burden of infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance world-wide prompt immediate action to combat this emerging threat. Catheter associated urinary infections (CAUTI) are the leading cause of hospital-acquired infections. The aim of this research is to develop a virtual reality (VR) based educational tool depicting the process of CAUTI caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria. The VR-CAUTI module is designed to provide insights to health care providers and community which help in reducing the burden of antibiotic resistant infections. Material and Methods: The VR-CAUTI module is designed using tools including Blender, Cinema4D and Unity to create a scientifically accurate first-person interactive movie. The users are launched inside a human bladder that needs to be drained. They can witness the insertion of a medical catheter into the bladder to drain the urine. Bacteria adhere to the catheter to establish colonization and infection. An interaction between antibiotic molecules and bacteria in the biofilm is observed later. After designing the 3D models, a highlight of the interaction between models, taken from the storyboard, is used to determine the necessary animation. Moreover, dialogue that facilitates the understanding of infections and antibiotic resistance is recorded. This is followed by the assembly of the module on Unity, and enrichments such as lights and orientation. Results and conclusion: This VR-CAUTI module is the proof-of-concept for designing detailed VR based scientifically very accurate medical simulation that could be used in medical education to maximize learning outcomes. VR based modules that have the potential to transform and revolutionize learning experience and render medical education compatible with the IoT in the current 4th industrial revolution.