Meeting radiation therapy patients informational needs through educational videos augmented by 3D visualisation software

Abstract

IntroductionMisconceptions and uncertainties about radiotherapy compound the anxiety patients experience at the commencement of treatment. This project investigated the utility of locally produced treatment process videos in meeting patients’ informational needs.MethodsIn‐house video production was conducted on a voluntary basis by staff and patients at a regional Australian radiotherapy centre. Videos included real footage and animated sections created with PEARLTM 3D visualisation software (Vertual Ltd, UK) to meet specific key content objectives. Quantitative cross sectional analysis was conducted. Patients attending for simulation watched a relevant video. After their first fraction of radiotherapy they were asked to complete an ethics‐reviewed questionnaire about how well the video addressed their information needs.ResultsThe survey completion rate was 29% (n = 61/212). Surveys were collected over 9 months from August 2014 to April 2015. Statistical analysis found 98% of patients reported that the video was useful in meeting one or more of the learning objectives. Forty‐nine percent of patients also reported a reduction in fear and anxiety as a result of watching the video. Patients reported subsequent review of videos at home (39%), primarily to explain treatment processes to loved ones (46%).ConclusionThe combination of real footage and 3D visualisation software assisted in meeting learning objectives regarding the treatment process. Standardised videos provided consistency of information provision to patients and facilitated multiple viewings of the video if desired.

Radiation therapy patient education using VERT: combination of technology with human care

“…In one study, VERT education sessions were conducted using each individual patient's RT treatment plan. All other studies employed a relevant, but generic patient CT data set …”

“…VERT provides a combination of graphics, sensory technology and a physical hand‐held pendant which enables users to interact actively with the artificial, computer generated environment . The introduction of VERT into patient education offers clinical and academic educators an innovative way to demonstrate RT information …”

“…7 The introduction of VERT into patient education offers clinical and academic educators an innovative way to demonstrate RT information. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] Current Evidence For Patient Education Using VERT Current evidence demonstrates a range of VERT-based intervention methods. Learner groups and measures of outcomes have been developed within or for local cancer care centre resources and patient education needs.…”

“…All other studies employed a relevant, but generic patient CT data set. [9][10][11][12][13][14][15] In terms of evaluation outcomes, patient knowledge and satisfaction were the most commonly explored outcomes. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] Patients' satisfaction with the education intervention was often measured using non-validated, study-specific instruments or interviews, reducing the ability to compare results between different studies.…”

“…[9][10][11][12][13][14][15] In terms of evaluation outcomes, patient knowledge and satisfaction were the most commonly explored outcomes. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] Patients' satisfaction with the education intervention was often measured using non-validated, study-specific instruments or interviews, reducing the ability to compare results between different studies. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] Nonetheless, data from these studies report an increase in knowledge and/or satisfaction with the VERT-based education interventions.…”