ImpactLife’s mixed reality headsets transform blood donation experience

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) – A local blood bank is changing the blood donation experience through these new mixed reality headsets, aiming to ease anxiety, attract new donors, and enhance the overall blood donation process.

Impact Life has recently unveiled their latest mixed reality headsets for blood donors to use while giving blood. The mixed reality experience is meant to help those who may be apprehensive or nervous about donating, providing a calming distraction and a fun way to relax and participate.

The mixed reality headset uses the Microsoft HoloLens 2, a self-contained holographic computer that enables a hands-free interaction with 3D digital objects, and allows blood donors to navigate the virtual scenarios using just their eyes. The interactive software was developed in a partnership between Blood Centers of America and Abbott, a healthcare technology company serving the blood industry.

Before starting, blood donors are given a brief tutorial on how to use the mixed-reality headsets. The donor then puts on a lightweight mixed-reality headset. While experiencing the digital world, the donor remains fully aware of their surroundings, and the collection specialist drawing the donation can interact with the donor throughout the process since the donor’s eyes are always visible for monitoring and evaluation.

Copyright 2023 KWQC. All rights reserved.