Quality improvement in radiation therapy: translating printed patient education pamphlets to audiovisual digital resources

Objective Written pamphlets have traditionally been the mainstay of patient education in radiation oncology. This project assesses the efficacy of an illustrated (non-live-action), narrated animated video versus a printed pamphlet in supporting patients with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy. Materials and methods A narrated animation video illustrating radiation therapy education was created. 40 patients recommended for adjuvant breast radiotherapy were recruited, presented with both the pamphlet and video, then surveyed. Cohorts were compared using Mann-Whitney U and Fisher's exact tests, and before-and-after emotional changes using McNemar's test. Results Most participants (95%, n = 38) rated the materials "very easy" to review. Comfort with the upcoming CT simulation had a median of 1 [IQR 1–2] in Cohort B versus 2 [IQR 1–2] in Cohort A ( p = 0.52). Preparedness for managing skin reactions and confidence in retaining information were similar between cohorts ( p = 0.82 and p = 0.36). Almost all found the length appropriate. After reviewing both resources, 50% ( n = 20) preferred the video alone, 18% ( n = 7) preferred both, and 33% ( n = 13) preferred the pamphlet alone; preference did not differ by viewing order ( p = 0.41). Self-reported anxiety decreased significantly from before to after the consultation (30%, n = 12 to 5%, n = 2, p = 0.002), with non-significant increases in relief, calmness, and confidence. Conclusion The animated video may support patient comfort and confidence during radiation therapy for breast cancer. However, both pamphlets and videos appear useful for patient education, and combining them could optimize effectiveness.