Health educational technology for hospital discharge

guidance on medical devices for patients and family members

Abstract

Hospitalization and the insertion of medical devices may be necessary during periods of exacerbation of chronic health conditions. Some of these devices require continued home use, highlighting the importance of nursing in health education and in preparing patients and their families for proper management. Educational technologies are relevant tools in this process. Thus, this study reports on the experience of providing guidance, with the support of health educational technology, on the use of medical devices at the time of hospital discharge. The actions were developed as part of extension activities, totaling 18 bedside orientations, with and without the use of the technology. Patients who would continue using medical devices after discharge were included. It was observed that 44.44% of the orientations employed educational technology, resulting in improved understanding among patients and families. In contrast, 55.55% were conducted without technology, using only demonstrations on the patient's device; in this group, 60% required reintervention and 50% reported questions. It is concluded that the educational technology developed contributed significantly to improving the understanding of the guidance provided in the context of hospital discharge.