Consumer engagement in the development of a video to inform health service clients about the risks and prevention of venous thromboembolism

Abstract

Objective: To develop a patient education program, including an instructional video, on the prevention of venous thromboembolism. Method: A consumer focus group was conducted to garner participants’ experiences, thoughts and ideas on the development of an educational video on the prevention of venous thromboembolism. Results: A combined approach using a printed pamphlet and educational video can supplement healthcare professional verbal instructions. Major points to inform the production of an educational video include: (1) consistency of key messages; (2) keep video short; (3) use storytelling; (4) layer and re-enforce messages; (5) demonstrate simple instructions through behaviour modelling and visual imaging and (6) use humour but interspersed with serious messages and include statistics to enhance credibility. Conclusion: The provision of quality patient education is vital and can positively influence patient outcomes. Conducting a focus group to ascertain consumer views and ideas on the introduction of a video proved beneficial and insightful for both researchers and consumers. Comparison of key findings from both the focus group discussions and the evidence in the literature were consistent. The availability of a patient education video can supplement verbal instructions, but will require a practice change by staff.