Critical evaluation of YouTube videos on colostomy and ileostomy: Can these videos be used as learning resources?

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed at identifying and analyzing the accuracy of YouTube videos on colostomy and ileostomy.

Methods: YouTube website was searched independently by researchers for videos on colostomy and ileostomy posted before the 18th of May, 2019. Based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, the videos matching the research objective were identified. Data related to each video were collected, and the videos were categorized using standardized criteria.

Results: A total of 357 videos were identified. Finally, 149 videos were included in the study. Of these, 52 (35%) were educationally useful, and 97 (65%) were not useful. None of the video parameters, including the number of viewers, duration, number of likes or dislikes, days on YouTube or number of comments, was able to differentiate between useful or not useful videos. The score of videos was 14.7 ± 0.6 for valuable videos and 11.0 ± 2.0 for not useful videos (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: While there were a reasonably number of colostomy and ileostomy videos, there was a smaller number on the surgical procedure. Most non-educational videos were not consistent with clinical guidelines.

Practical implications: YouTube videos on colostomy/ileostomy care can be an important educational resource to patients. However, a collaboration between patients, nurse educators and universities/hospitals is needed to produce high-quality videos.

Keywords: Colostomy; Ileostomy; Learning resource; Patient education; Self-care; YouTube videos.