Development and evaluation of a computer-based educational program for adults with congenitally malformed hearts.

BACKGROUND There is a lack of educational material for adults with congenitally malformed hearts. Computer-based education has shown to have significant effects on knowledge and management of chronic diseases. AIM The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a computer-based educational program for adults with congenitally malformed hearts. METHODS The program was developed by a multidisciplinary team. Data were collected by questionnaires, observations, and structured interviews. RESULTS The final product was a computer-based educational program consisting of ten separate modules, one for each particular malformation. The program was experienced as stimulating and easy to use. The appearance and quantity of the text was graded as good and the content as relevant and very useful. CONCLUSION This is the first computer-based program developed for adults with congenitally malformed hearts. The evaluation found the program to have great potential as an important tool for improving care. Further studies are needed to test the outcomes of the program on knowledge, perceived control over the heart condition, anxiety/depression. and health-related quality of life. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The program may be used as a complement to verbal information and every adult with a congenitally malformed hearts can receive individualized information from a personal CD.