Highlights the dichotomy between adult learning theory and current patient education practices. Suggests a need for increased awareness of the role of medical and allied health staff as adult educators. (JOW)

Assessed the effectiveness of an Arthritis Self Management course for people aged 55-95 (N=200). Results indicated significant gains in knowledge and pain reduction. Trends toward less disability were observed for participants under age 74. (JAC)

Examined the effect of structuring (providing procedural and sensation information) on anxiety responses of hospitalized individuals (N=30) undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization. Results showed structuring that provided information regarding both procedures and physical sensations lessened anxiety more than procedural information alone.…

Mental health center outpatients without health insurance or welfare were studied to determine the effect of fee assessment on premature termination. Charging non-psychotic clients a sliding scale fee influenced them not to terminate treatment prematurely. (Author)

The development of pain clinics for the treatment of chronic pain is discussed. A variety of treatments offered are outlined. (JMF)

This article describes a study to determine the readability of selected patient education materials using the cloze procedure adapted from the Gestalt concept of closure. (JMF)

In Italy, adults aged 50-76 were trained to transmit medical information to other elders. Results were compared with a group who received information from physicians. Quality of life, health promotion, and social life issues were investigated. (SK)

An outcomes-based assessment instrument was devised to screen patients for learning problems that would impede patient education in cardiac rehabilitation. Criteria for seven barriers were established: hearing, language, cultural, religious, vision, cognitive, emotional). Points of data collection and a rationale for collection were identified.…

Describes five types of acne and stresses the importance of appropriate treatment. Some dermatologists believe diet is critical in improving acne. Other treatments include the use of drying lotions and soaps, astringents, abrasive cleansers, prescription drugs, face peels, and dermabrasion. (SM)

Three persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) were matched with four community participants for leisure activities. Community participants were trained and were given specific interactions suggestions. Integrated social contacts were measured using a multiple-baseline design across participants. Results suggest that social integration can be…

Use of the Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System, a computerized information system, by patients with breast cancer or HIV was compared. Groups differed in the frequency of access and use of certain aspects (e.g., discussion groups). Identification of patient concerns provided useful information for system improvements. (SK)

Women in menopause require reassurance and reliable information. Based on concerns expressed in letters (N=7,000), women in premenopause want to know what to expect, in perimenopause they want to know whether their experiences are normal, and in postmenopause they need help in making sensible decisions about the use of hormone therapy. (Author/EMK)

Before and after implementation of a program in which physicians counseled patients about smoking, 22 physicians were surveyed and patient records reviewed. Although the program spurred more doctors to give patients self-help materials, no significant reduction of smoking occurred. (SK)

Tests the hypothesis that pictographs can improve recall of spoken medical instructions. Junior college subjects (N=21) listened to two lists of actions, one of which was accompanied by pictographs during both listening and recall while the other was not. Mean correct recall was 85% with pictographs and 14% without, indicating that pictographs can…

A multidisciplinary care protocol was developed to achieve continuity and integration of information. The protocol integrates medical, nursing, and a variety of extramural events and activities into a comprehensive description of 15 "moments" in the care of breast cancer surgery patients. Implementation and evaluation are reported and…