Written materials are just one tool that can be used in the teaching and learning process. Effective patient educators from all disciplines understand the overall purpose of patient and family education and follow-through with all aspects of the educational process.
University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics has outlined guidelines for Patient Education. The overall purpose is to insure the patient and, when appropriate, his or her significant other(s) are provided with education to enhance knowledge, skills, and behavior change.
An interdisciplinary team approach is used at University Hospitals and Clinics to assist the patient in gaining knowledge and skills necessary to meet the patient’s ongoing health care needs. Education should be specific to the patient’s needs and presented in an understandable way. Patient education processes should be assessed, analyzed, and a plan of action developed for implementation. The patient education process should be re-evaluated periodically.
Patient education needs are to be continually assessed, identified, and addressed. Education includes instruction in the specific knowledge and skills needed by the patient and his or her significant other(s) to meet the patient’s needs.
Education should be provided in a manner that:
In selecting resources for patient education the educator should keep in mind that education should be adapted to appropriate age, developmental need, culture, and language for the specific patient or significant other. And, the education process should always be addressed as part of the interdisciplinary process of care.
The provision of patient education is extremely important in the hospital and clinic setting. All educational activities should be delivered in a timely, efficient, caring, and respectful manner. As the educational process occurs, it should be carefully documented by all individuals providing the instruction. Documentation, in conjunction with verbal communication, allows caregivers to build on information already exchanged. Documentation occurs on the interdisciplinary Patient Education Record (PER). A copy of the generic PER form can be found on the Patient Education Home Page for providers to print out and use. Documentation in the outpatient setting may occur on other approved forms.
The Educational Process - Tips for Effective Patient Teaching
Patient education is much more than giving information. Education involves the process of assessment, setting goals, implementation, and evaluation. Effective educators utilize a wide variety of skills (such as empathy, caring, good communication, and unconditional positive regard) in working with their patients and their family members.
Some basic tips to help providers with their patient education efforts are provided in the booklet, Mosby’s Patient Teaching Tips. This booklet is available for checkout from the Office of Patient Education. This concise booklet is a "must read" for health care providers. Content areas covered include: