Randomized trial of a patient education tool about leiomyoma

Abstract

Objective: Uterine leiomyomata are a frequent indication for women seeking gynecologic care [1]. The objective of our study was to assess whether patient knowledge about leiomyomata, anxiety, or satisfaction with counseling differed in patients who received multimedia counseling versus standard counseling.

Methods: Women with leiomyomata who presented to the gynecology clinic at a single institution were randomized to standard counseling or multimedia counseling using the drawMD OB/GYN iPad™ application. Participants completed a pre-counseling questionnaire, received the designated method of counseling, and completed a post-counseling questionnaire. Outcomes of the study included assessment of patient knowledge, satisfaction, and anxiety.

Results: Seventy-two participants were randomized. There was no significant difference in post-counseling anxiety between the groups (p = 0.86). For both groups, anxiety significantly improved after counseling. Both groups were satisfied with the counseling they received, however, there was no difference between groups. Participants in both groups significantly improved their knowledge about fibroids post-counseling.

Conclusion: Counseling of patients with leiomyomata improves patient satisfaction and knowledge. The addition of a multimedia tool may or may not enhance patient counseling.

Practice implications: This is the first prospective, randomized controlled trial evaluating the impact of a multimedia tool on patient education and counseling for patients with leiomyomata.

Keywords: Fibroids; Multimedia; Patient counseling; Patient education; Symptomatic uterine fibroids; Uterine leiomyomata.