Utilization of mobile application improves perioperative education and patient satisfaction in general surgery patients

Abstract

Introduction: Clear and accurate communication is paramount in delivering high quality surgical care. Through the development of a mobile application, we provided patients with a source of education and instruction throughout the peri-operative period.

Methods: Patients >18 years old with a smart-phone undergoing elective general surgery procedures were eligible. Patients received perioperative educational materials and text message reminders of time-sensitive events via the application. A System Usability Scale and survey was administered.

Results: 100 patients were enrolled; 51% completed the survey. The average SUS score was 86, correlating with >90th percentile usability. 86% of patients felt that the application improved their surgical experience, 96% said the application provided essential reminders, and 90% felt that application clarified information. 84% of patients did not identify any inconsistency between the application and surgeon.

Conclusion: Utilizing patient's smart phones to aid in perioperative education is feasible and improves patient satisfaction. This application has a high usability score, indicating ease of use.

Keywords: Cell-phone; Patient education; Patient satisfaction; Smart-phone.