An evaluation of the effectiveness of a videotape for discharge teaching of organ transplant recipients.

Patients' understanding of discharge teaching is an essential factor for compliance with medications and follow-up care after an organ transplant. This study compared the knowledge gained by the current method of individualized discharge teaching with that same teaching method plus a videotape. Fifty participants were assigned alternately to two groups. A written test was used to assess knowledge after teaching. Test scores indicated that the two methods were equally effective. Qualitative data gathered during interviews indicated that both groups were equally satisfied with their education. It was concluded that videotaped education is an acceptable and effective strategy when used in conjunction with other methods. Varying the medium for education will meet the unique learning needs of more patients.