This quasi-experimental study utilized a pre- and post-test design with experimental and control groups to assess the effectiveness of optimized illustrated educational pamphlets in enhancing patient self-care cognition, satisfaction, and reducing anxiety. The experimental group received pamphlets with a combination of images and highlighted text, while the control group received traditional text-based pamphlets. The study targeted patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck or breast cancer for the first time. Pre-tests assessed baseline self-care cognition, and post-tests were conducted two weeks after treatment completion. The primary objective was to improve patient awareness and understanding of self-care, aiming to support both mental and physical well-being during RT.

This quasi-experimental, pre- and post-test comparison study was conducted from November 2, 2023, to August 31, 2024, at a medical center in Central Taiwan, following Institutional Review Board approval (IRB No. CS2-23058). A total of 200 first-time RT patients with head and neck or breast cancer were enrolled and randomized into two groups of 100 patients each. The experimental group received optimized illustrated pamphlets covering essential RT information, common side effects, and self-care principles, while the control group received traditional text-based pamphlets.

Inclusion Criteria:

• participants with clear consciousness.
• participants could understand and comprehend Mandarin Chinese.

Exclusion Criteria:

• participants with impaired consciousness or decreased cognitive abilities.