Effects of systematic education on heart failure patients' knowledge after 6 months. A randomised, controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Many procedures for patient education are introduced in clinical practice without proper evaluation in randomised trials.

Aims: To compare systematic nurse and pharmacist led education including an interactive Kodak Photo-CD Portfolio technique with conventional information regarding heart failure patients' knowledge.

Methods: One hundred and thirty heart failure patients discharged from hospital were randomised to receive either conventional information or additional structured education with a follow-up of 6 months. Difference in knowledge was tested by questionnaire after 6 months.

Results: At the end of the study there was a significant difference in the intervention group (n = 50) compared to the control group (n = 58) regarding knowledge as tested by a questionnaire. Of maximal 28 points the intervention group attained 17.2 points (mean) and the control group 14.3 points (mean), 95% confidence interval for difference 1.0-4.7 points (P = 0.0051).

Conclusions: Two to 3 hours of systematic education improved heart failure patients' knowledge on essential issues. High age does not preclude the introduction of a new technique for patient education.