This study compared the effectiveness of an Internet-based method with a standard method for preparing adolescent patients scheduled for out-patient tonsillectomy procedures. A two-group experimental design compared adolescents' state anxiety, knowledge acquisition, postoperative pain intensity, and satisfaction with the method of preoperative preparation. Parents' state anxiety and satisfaction with their child's preparation method also were compared. Data analysis revealed significantly increased knowledge acquisition and satisfaction among adolescents who were assigned to the Internet method of preparation and increased satisfaction among their parents.

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Educating patients is a primary responsibility of all nurses, however due to time constraints and staff shortages, pediatric oncology nurses are often unable to adequately prepare patients for cancer treatment. Instead, patients frequently rely on the Internet as a source of information about cancer, some of which can be outdated and inaccurate. Adolescents regard the Internet to be a valuable source of health information as it is easily accessible, less threatening and confidential. Considering the need for accurate, readily available information for adolescents with cancer, the purpose of this study was to develop and validate an innovative, interactive web-based educational program to prepare early and middle adolescents for cancer treatment. Entitled Coping with Cancer, this program was developed by the investigator after conducting in-depth interviews of adolescent cancer survivors and their parents. Based on the Transactional Model of Coping, the program focuses on enhancing the adolescent's knowledge of cancer, cancer treatment, and healthy coping strategies. Coping with Cancer can be an effective resource for pediatric oncology nurses in providing ongoing education for adolescents with cancer.