Engagement, Satisfaction, and Self-Efficacy in Virtual Reality-Based Nursing Education: A Protocol for a Systematic Review of Qualitative Studies

BackgroundVirtual reality technology has emerged as a transformative educational tool in nursing education, offering immersive learning experiences that bridge theoretical knowledge and clinical practice. While quantitative studies have examined learning outcomes and skill acquisition, the subjective experiences of nursing students regarding engagement, satisfaction, and self-efficacy development through virtual reality remain inadequately synthesized. Understanding these experiential dimensions is crucial for optimizing virtual reality integration in nursing curricula and supporting student learning in increasingly technology-enhanced educational environments. ObjectivesThis systematic review protocol aims to synthesize qualitative evidence on nursing students experiences of engagement, satisfaction, and self-efficacy when participating in virtual reality-based educational interventions, exploring facilitators, barriers, and contextual factors influencing these psychological outcomes. MethodsFollowing PRISMA-P guidelines, we will search seven databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Education Source, ERIC, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science) from 2014 to December 2025. The PICo framework guides eligibility criteria focusing on nursing students experiencing virtual reality education, with qualitative exploration of engagement, satisfaction, and self-efficacy. Covidence will facilitate study screening and selection. Quality assessment will employ the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative checklist. Thematic synthesis following Thomas and Hardens approach will integrate findings across studies. Confidence in synthesized findings will be assessed using GRADE-CERQual methodology. DiscussionThis protocol establishes systematic methodology for understanding nursing students psychological experiences with virtual reality education. Synthesis findings will inform evidence-based implementation of virtual reality in nursing programs, curriculum design strategies, and support mechanisms for technology-enhanced learning. Results will guide educators in creating engaging virtual reality experiences that enhance satisfaction and build clinical self-efficacy among nursing students.