Evaluation of the Use of Multimedia to Enhance Patient and Family Understanding

Evaluation of the Use of Multimedia to Enhance Patient and Family Understanding

This study will investigate the potential impact of arts-informed, technology-based patient education material, and specifically, the role of multimedia imagery on patient comprehension, perceived satisfaction, anxiety levels, and informed decision-making.

Based on an inter-professional approach to support a new role in patient care, this research addresses both literacy and health literacy issues within the context of current challenges to healthcare delivery and associated fragmentation in continuity of care. Patient education is a key component in the delivery of comprehensive care and it is the potential for on-line patient education that provides the basis for research.

Inclusion Criteria:

The following inclusion criteria will be used: Participants must be:

1. Newly diagnosed breast cancer patients

2. A minimum age of 18 years or older

3. Able to read and write in English and/or French

4. Have a confirmed diagnosis of any of the following:

   1. Infiltrating ductal carcinoma
   2. Ductal carcinoma in situ (Grade III)
   3. Lobular carcinoma in situ (Grade III)
   4. Infiltrating lobular carcinoma

5. Have access to, and the ability to use, a computer

Exclusion Criteria:

• The following criteria will be reasons for exclusion from the study:

  1. The participant has a serious psychiatric or cognitive impairment that would prevent the patient from completing the study requirements.
  2. The participant has a previous history of breast cancer