The Self-Care Educational Intervention study: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Background: A variety of educational interventions have been implemented to assist patients with heart failure maintain their own health, develop self-care behaviours and decrease readmissions. The most effective approach to education has yet to be established. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of a multimedia educational intervention for patients with heart failure in reducing hospital readmissions. Secondary outcomes will include changes in knowledge and self-care behaviours. Design: A randomised controlled trail in a large tertiary referral hospital will recruit 200 patients with 12 month follow-up. Patients diagnosed with heart failure and being managed by a heart failure service will be randomly allocated 1:1 to either usual education or a multimedia educational intervention. The intervention, based on the principles of adult learning is delivered face to face by a specialised heart failure nurse and is individualised. It includes a targeted educational assessment and subsequent development of an educational plan. A multimedia approach is utilised including verbal discussion, viewing of a DVD and provision of a written manual. The teach-back strategy at the conclusion of the intervention evaluates the patient's learning through 5 key questions about self management of heart failure. Readmissions are assessed at 28 days, 3 months and 12 months. Knowledge and self-care behaviour are assessed at recruitment, 3 months and 12 months. Discussion: This study evaluates the effectiveness of a targeted multimedia educational intervention. Study results will contribute to a better understanding of the impact of an individualised needs assessment, education plan and teach-back evaluation strategy on patient outcomes.