Can Easy-to-Read Immunization Information Increase Knowledge in Urban Low-Income Mothers?

Abstract

This article describes a pilot study that (1) assessed the self-report of highest grade completed in school and the actual reading and comprehension skills of low-income mothers whose children receive immunizations in urban public clinics and (2) tested the effectiveness of a nursing intervention on immunization knowledge using revised easy-to-read written education materials. Thirty-seven mothers were randomized either to a control group (asked to read the standard vaccine information sheets) or to an experimental group (asked to read the revised immunization pamphlets). Although there was a modest increase in immunization knowledge for both groups, it was not significant. Thus, simplifying information alone may not increase parental knowledge.