The healthcare system today faces numerous challenges that threaten the quality of care and the efficiency of healthcare organizations. To address these issues and to keep our workforce up-to-date and well-trained, there is an urgent need for innovative training solutions and on-the-job support tools for nurses. XR4Health, a project initiated by UCLL and Flanders Make, leverages Extended Reality (XR) technology to address this need. The primary objective is to disseminate knowledge and support healthcare organizations in adopting XR technology to train healthcare professionals through an online platform.

By implementing various XR training tools, accessible through a customized platform, we anticipate a reduction in individual training time, along with lower costs and fewer errors in the workplace. Additionally, XR-based training offers greater flexibility, efficiency, and accessibility. We predict that these training tools will positively impact nurses' job performance, resulting in a more flexible deployment of staff. The phased implementation of these XR technologies allows us to gradually expand the use of various training modules and enhance the digital knowledge of nursing staff.

Three key challenges are being addressed:
(1) bridging the knowledge gap between healthcare and technology stakeholders,
(2) developing user-friendly and purpose-driven XR demonstrators, and
(3) integrating all components into an accessible and interactive online platform for all stakeholders.

To enable knowledge transfer, nurses in Flanders participated in an online needs assessment survey that explored their training needs, as well as their interest in and readiness to adopt XR-supported training. The training needs appear to focus on (re)training for medical procedures, such as wound care and tracheotomy, learning various communication techniques, such as managing aggression or dealing with dementia, and simulating direct patient contact, allowing nurses to master complex procedures without risk to patients. Furthermore, there is a reported need to improve the digital skills of nurses, especially in light of the current global digitalization trend. This project will therefore place additional emphasis on supporting institutions in this evolution.

After identifying the training needs, we initiated a matchmaking process that led to the development of five specific demonstrator kits, created in collaboration with nurses and technology stakeholders. Simultaneously, we began building the online platform, designed to be fully compatible with the standard systems used in healthcare organizations. The platform will be accessible on any device, without the need for complex or costly (software) installations. It will serve both healthcare professionals and technology partners, fostering interaction and collaboration among all users. By doing so, it will become a dynamic learning resource for everyone involved.

The unique approach of combining the expertise of healthcare organizations and technology partners in the development of specialized XR training tools on an accessible online platform will create synergies and provide sustainable, practical tools for healthcare professionals.

Keywords: XR, training, innovation, platform.