The effect of pre-admission education on domiciliary recovery following laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this randomised controlled study were to determine if pre-admission patient education affects post-operative pain levels, domiciliary self-care capacity and patient recall following a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Participants were randomised to receive the standard preadmission program (SP) or an individualised, education intervention (El).

Design: A pre-operative questionnaire was administered in the pre-admission clinic to determine participants' knowledge of LC and post-operative management. Telephone follow-up and post-operative questionnaire were conducted approximately 14 days post discharge.

Setting: Preadmission clinic of a Sydney, Australia, tertiary referral hospital.

Sample: Ninety-three elective LC patients.

Results: EI participants experienced lower pain levels and had significantly greater recall of provided information. However, no significant differences were found between the control and intervention groups for domiciliary self-care.

Conclusion: Pre-admission education intervention helps reduce post-operative pain levels following LC and significantly increases patients' knowledge of self-care and complication management.