Readability, Suitability, and Content Evaluation of Initial, Online Masking Guidance from U.S. States during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background With the introduction of face mask orders to prevent spread COVID-19, general public may have turned their state government or health department’s website find information on coverings.Purpose This study seeks evaluate readability, suitability, and content masking guidance department websites from U.S. states with during beginning COVID-19 pandemic.Methods Each state’s education coverings (n = 41) was assessed using three readability indices Suitability Assessment for Materials tool suitability. A novel guidance- specific score developed coverings.Results Masking varied in literacy demand, format, content. The mean surpasses recommended grade level is too difficult most Americans understand. SAM considered “adequate” over half states’ contained all seven points related coverings.Translation Health Education Practice During a crisis like pandemic, readable, suitable, consistent online vital encouraging adherence promoting other preventive behaviors.