Accepted for/Published in: JMIR mHealth and uHealth
Date Submitted: Jan 25, 2019
Open Peer Review Period: Jan 28, 2019 - Feb 21, 2019
Date Accepted: May 5, 2019
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
An Electronic Teaching Module is Effective in Improving Knowledge of Self-management of Vaso-occlusive Pain Crises in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease
ABSTRACT
Background:
For patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), effective management of vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs) is integral to provision of care, as nearly all affected individuals will suffer from VOCs in their lifetime. A recent systematic review of technological interventions to improve self-management in the care of SCD concluded that electronic health (eHealth) has potential to improve the care of individuals with SCD.
Objective:
This study assessed the value of an electronic teaching module (ETM) provided by Emmi Solutions in educating adult patients with SCD regarding self-management of VOCs and treatment options for SCD.
Methods:
A pre-test assessed adults with SCD for baseline knowledge regarding self-management of VOCs. Participants then watched the 35-minute ETM and completed a post-test and a survey regarding the ETM.
Results:
Twenty adults enrolled. Their knowledge scores improved (pre-test median 66.5% and post-test median 85%, p < 0.001). Eighteen participants (90%) agreed that they “learned a lot” or “learned something” from the ETM. The most common topic about which they reported learning was hydroxyurea. Twelve participants (60%) agreed with the statement that they “would recommend the module to a friend or family member with sickle cell disease.”
Conclusions:
The ETM improved disease-specific knowledge in patients with SCD. Limitations of the study include small sample size, no assessment of knowledge prior to pre-module questionnaire completion, and no longitudinal follow-up. Identifying patients with SCD who demonstrate affinity for self-education via an ETM may further enhance utility of this tool to educate and empower patients.
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