The effect of an integrated education model on anxiety and uncertainty in patients undergoing cervical disc herniation surgery

Mei Fang Chuang, Heng Hsin Tung*, Daniel L. Clinciu, Jing Shan Huang, Usman Iqbal, Chih Ju Chang, I. Chang Su, Fu Chih Lai, Yu Chuan Li

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

20 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background:
Educating patients about receiving surgical procedures is becoming an important issue, as it can reduce anxiety and uncertainty while helping to hasten decisions for undergoing time sensitive surgeries. We evaluated a new integrated education model for patients undergoing cervical disc herniation surgery using a quasi-experimental design.

Methods:
The participants were grouped into either the new integrated educational model (n = 32) or the standard group (n = 32) on the basis of their ward numbers assigned at admission. Anxiety, uncertainty, and patient satisfaction were measured before (pre-test) and after the educational intervention (post-test-1) and post-surgery (post-test-2) to assess the effectiveness of the model in this intervention.

Results:
We found that the generalized estimating equation modeling demonstrated this new integrated education model was more effective than the conventional model in reducing patients' anxiety and uncertainty (p < 0.05). Patients were also more satisfied with our newly developed model as it takes a more holistic approach to individual health.

Conclusion:
This novel systemic educational model enhances patient's understanding of the medical condition and surgery while promoting patient-caregiver interaction for optimal patient health outcomes. We present a comprehensive and consistent platform for educational purposes in patients undergoing surgery as well as reducing the psychological burden from anxiety and uncertainty. Integrating medicine, nursing, and new technologies into an e-practice and e-learning platform offers the potential of easier understanding and usage. It could revolutionize patient education in the future.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)17-23
Number of pages7
JournalComputer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine
Volume133
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2016
Externally publishedYes

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