Jul 18, 2017
This episode features Professor Liz Forbat (Australian Catholic
University, Canberra, ACT, Australia) and Rachel Bilton-Simek
(Calvary Public Hospital Bruce, Canberra, ACT, Australia). Together
they describe a Single-arm mixed-method feasibility
proof-of-concept trial which aimed to design and test an
innovative distance-learning educational package (PrECEPt:
PalliativE Caregivers Education Package).
The study determined that distance learning is acceptable and
feasible for both caregivers and healthcare
professionals. Two modules were developed and tested
(nutrition/hydration and pain management) with 18 caregivers.
The materials did not have a statistically significant impact
on carer self-efficacy. However, statistically significant
improvements were observed on the two subsidiary measures of
(1) caregiving tasks, consequences and needs
(p = 0.03, confidence interval: 0.72, 9.4) and (2) caregiver
preparedness (p = 0.001, confidence interval: −1.22,
−0.46).
In conclusion the findings demonstrates education improves
caregiver preparedness and is a feasible and acceptable
approach. Full paper available from: http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0269216317712849