Authors (including presenting author) :
Luk KM(1), Ma YJI(1), Law YKC(1), Chan MK(1), Fu KS(1), Lee MH(1), Pang SY(1)(2)(3)
Affiliation :
(1)Surgical Wards, Department of Surgery, Ruttonjee and Tang Shiu Kin Hospitals (2)Combined Endoscopy Unit, Department of Surgery, Ruttonjee and Tang Shiu Kin Hospitals
Introduction :
A personalized health education is vital to improve patient’s physical and psycho-social wellbeing, especially for surgical procedures. Quick Response (QR) codes play an important role in our daily life which allow access to information within seconds. We screened thoroughly over 400 health information in different Internet databases and selected around 90 appropriate surgical-related education and discharge tips for QR codes design. Hence, nurses can empower ward patients more efficiently while discharged patients with scheduled surgical appointment can re-access easier to related information anytime and anywhere.
Objectives :
1. To promulgate patient health education through smart initiatives. 2. To integrate available digital information into routine patient education. 3. To promote easier online access to health information/ videos. 4. To standardize nurses to provide the same content/level of patient education with electronic resources.
Methodology :
1. Set up a workgroup and search for public-accessible health education resources. 2. Re-design and prepare QR codes for implementation. 3. Design questionnaires to collect patients and staff opinions. 4. Implement program in ward and outpatient settings. 5. Conduct program evaluation for staff and patient opinions.
Result & Outcome :
RESULTS: 1. Patient satisfaction survey: Over 85% patients were satisfied with the QR code education pamphlets. Nearly 70% patients preferred receiving health information in QR codes, topics including endoscopy or operation related information, post-discharge care, etc. Nearly half respondents expressed their needs in health information related to the above health topics. 2. Staff opinion survey: Most ward nurses (~90%) agreed the QR code education leaflets were easy to use, effective to deliver and time-saving. Majority interviewees perceived the QR code format was user-friendly and welcomed by patients and their family. Many other education topics were suggested for future program enhancement like drain care and medication changes. CONCLUSIONS: This program showed positive results in survey and was welcomed by both patients and nurses. The re-designed QR code leaflets echo patients’ needs and save clinical time. Thus, it is more effective and easier for nurses to provide health education. Future review is suggested to integrate constructive feedbacks for longstanding benefits in health promotion. PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS: A new and easier way of sharing health materials to enhance patient education and better resources management.
