Study Protocol
muscle movements
SECONDARY, RECRUITMENT
The randomization process was performed using sealed envelopes containing the acronyms GE (experimental group) and GC (control group), numbered from 01 to 71 (36 for GE and 35 for GC) and delivered randomly. After eligibility evaluation and consent signing, participants chose one of the envelopes and opened it to identify their allocation group. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, recruitment was interrupted, and data collection occurred from October 2019 to January 2021. Therefore, 28 women were randomized in the GE and 24 in the GC.Participants in both groups underwent standard treatment: weekly chemotherapy applications, five teletherapy sessions per month, and four brachytherapy insertions per month. In addition, they were followed up during the first medical and nursing appointments and then in weekly consultations until discharge. The GE received the intervention (RGI by VR) for 12 sessionsThe intervention performed was the RGI by VR technique, applied three times a week. Participants were directed to a reserved, quiet room and comfortably positioned in a chair or stretcher (preferably individual). They were then invited to choose one of the available videos (sunset, moonlight, sitting on a beach, floating in water, or space). Participants were then instructed on how to handle the VR glasses control (BOBO VR Z4The technique begins with the video on a dark screen for initial relaxation (five minutes and 25 seconds). The audio invites the participant to perform breathing exercises and muscle movements that induce a state of relaxation. Then, the guided image with sensory guidance (four minutes and 14 seconds) is introduced, such as immersing in nature, interacting with smells, temperature, textures, sounds, and sensations with one’s body, and alternating slow and deep breathing. In the last 13 seconds, the participant is directed to pay attention to the sensations, focus on the rhythm of their breathing, and calmly and peacefully return to the environment.All participants and sessions were directly supervised and conducted by the same researcher to ensure protocol uniformity. The equipment was protected with adherent polyvinyl chloride film to avoid direct contact with participants’ skin without compromising audiovisual quality. After use, disinfection was performed.For analysis of population characteristics, after randomization, an instrument was applied to assess secondary variables (sociodemographic and clinical), such as age, occupation, marital status, staging, comorbidities, among others.