Evaluation of a computer assisted training program for hypertensive patients
Consoli, S.M.; Ben Said, M.; Jean, J.; Ménard, J.; Plouin, P.F.; Chatelier, G.
Archives des maladies du coeur et des vaisseaux 87(8): 1093-1096
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-9683 PMID: 7755466 Document Number: 431230
ISIS tutorial program (French abbreviation for Animated and Computerized Initiation into Health) was carried out for Macintosh type computers to place a modern and interactive learning device at cardiovascular risk patients' disposal. Such a program combines strict scientific explanations and aesthetic attractiveness of multimedia communication. To test the effect of this device on health knowledge gain, 158 hypertensives admitted in one-day or in half-week clinics for an initial check-up or for a therapeutic adjustment were randomised into two groups: a control group (n = 79), receiving usual education (contacts with physicians, nurses, dieticians, health oriented booklets), and an experimental or "ISIS" group (n = 79) undergoing an interactive session with the computer during 30 to 60 minutes, in addition to usual education. Health knowledge of both groups was assessed through a 28-item questionnaire, before any education procedure, two months after the discharge, through a standardized interview by phone, thanks to the same investigator. On the whole, 69 + 69 = 138 complete case records could be analysed. Initial health knowledge mean score, at admission to the hospital, was 14.3 +/- 4.2 (range: 4 to 25). This score significantly improved among the whole population (difference between the two evaluations: 3.7 +/- 3.5 points; p = 0.0001). Improvement was greater in ISIS group than in controls (p = 0.02). Among hypertensives with initial scores < or = 16, improvement was respectively 4.5 +/- 3.6 and 2.9 +/- 3.0 for ISIS and control groups (p < 0.01).