Comparison of the efficacy of written information vs. verbal plus written information in rheumatic patients who receive colchicine treatment

Abstract

This study was planned to compare the efficacy of written information vs verbal plus written information in patients with rheumatic diseases who receive colchicine treatment. Initially, a readable and comprehensible “drug information booklet” was developed for the patients. After that, a “drug knowledge questionnaire” was structured for testing to assess the level of patients’ knowledge. The questionnaire was responded by the patients (Pretest). Seventy one patients were categorized into two groups; Group A (n=35) consisted of patients given only the written booklet, whereas patients given verbal information along with the written booklet included in Group B (n=36). To assess the level of knowledge at 8-12-week after, the same questionnaire was asked again (Posttest). As expected, compared to baseline, there was a significant increase in the knowledge levels of the patients following both form of education (p<0.001); however knowledge levels did not show significant differences between the groups (p=0.426). This study showed that patient education is successful in increasing the knowledge levels of patients, irrespective of methods being used for informing. So, a written drug information booklet alone seems to be a useful tool to increase awareness of patients about a certain medication.