Abstract:
In close collaboration with patients, a multimedia education program about anaesthesiology was developed. It is suitable for a layperson and shows a high level of interactivity and individual use to a large extent. The program could be used by elder patients mainly without help, even if computer literacy was lacking.
In direct comparison to education with a printed brochure the patients felt the program to be more colorful and contemporary. However, almost one fifth of the patients thought, that the program was more impersonal than the brochure.
The patients estimated the program to be significantly more comprehensive, also due to use of graphical material and they preferred the design in a significant way.
In an evaluation before and after surgery the patients were significantly more content with the program and felt significantly better prepared for anesthesia. No significant influence of the program could be detected regarding the duration of the ward round before surgery, or regarding fear of anesthesia.