Video education provides effective wound care instruction pre- or post-mohs micrographic surgery.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine if delivery of wound care instruction pre-Mohs micrographic surgery versus the typical, post-Mohs surgery would allow for greater patient retention.

DESIGN

A non-blinded, randomized, controlled trial receiving institutional review board exemption from Michigan State University was conducted over a three-month period. Patients scheduled for Mohs surgery on 13 selected days were randomized into pre- versus post-procedure groups to receive wound care education.

SETTING

This study was conducted at a dermatology practice in Saint Joseph, Michigan.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty cognitive and literate patients greater than 18 years of age were evaluated in this study.

MEASUREMENTS

PARTICIPANTS' ability to recall instructions delivered by a Mohs surgeon in the form of digital media was assessed by a 10-question, multiple-choice exam. Additional analyses were conducted on patient's disposition around medical professionals, past experience with Mohs surgery, preference for digital media versus human instruction, and desire for home access.

RESULTS

Pre- (n=24; score=77±14%) versus post-(n=26; 83±11%) procedure education displayed no significant difference (p=0.13) in overall questionnaire performance. Seventy-four percent of participants preferred video delivery as opposed to provider instruction. Thirty-four percent reported being intimidated by healthcare workers. Participant performance showed no significant change (p=0.78) with previous exposure (79±19%) to Mohs surgery versus a first-time encounter (80±11%).

CONCLUSION

Video education prior to or post-Mohs surgery serves as an effective mechanism for patient education and improvement of time management in clinical practice.