Identifies barriers and facilitators to the implementation of patient education in community pharmacies and classifies these barriers and facilitators into the diffusion stages of Rogers'"Innovations in Organizations" model. Discusses the implementation of patient education activities that require individual and organizational change in…

A survey of nursing education programs in England revealed that the teaching of pharmacology is usually integrated into curriculum. Respondents felt insufficient time was devoted to it and that there were opportunities for integrating pharmacology knowledge and patient education in practice settings. (SK)

Background: Due to its chronic nature and its associated impact on physical function and life quality, arthritis in its various forms imposes a significant burden on society. Objective: To critically review and evaluate: (1) what has been documented about the burden of arthritis, (2) what is being done in treatment, and (3) what might be done at…

The author discusses health education for the patient and the differences between patient education and the concept of self-care. Both types of programs may contribute to the public's health at different points on the same continuum. (MF)

The study examined effects of a physician-delivered orientation on patient satisfaction for a short hospital stay (3 days or less). Using a comparative study design, the researcher found that, when patients had an orientation, satisfaction with services improved, as did perception of the physician's professionalism. (Author/CH)

Used a cloze procedure to measure 75 female patients' level of reading of a patient package insert for an oral contraceptive. Results showed three of four patients would need assistance in comprehending the information. Age and schooling had a significant effect on the cloze test scores. (JAC)

Three health education interventions for urban poor hypertensive patients were introduced in a randomized factorial design. Two-year data on compliance with therapy and five-year mortality data indicate the success of such educational programs in the long-term management and control of high blood pressure. (Author/GC)

Registered nurses' perceptions of their role, qualifications, and responsibility in patient education are presented. (JMF)

The effect size was calculated for 104 dependent variables studied in 23 experimental or quasi-experimental evaluations of patient education programs. The mean effect size for all 23 studies indicated that the average taught patient moved from the 50th to the 77th percentile, relative to the control group. (GDC)

Early childhood experiences communicating about death were better predictors of the ease with which respondents can imagine communicating with a terminally-ill loved one. Most respondents thought the physician should decide how the patient should be informed although 83 percent consider physicians poorly equipped for this role. (Author)

An incentive scheme to reward positive health behaviors (adherence to antituberculosis drug regimens) was tested with 88 active and 117 preventive patients randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Preventive patients who received incentives were significantly more likely to continue care and had higher adherence levels. Actives showed…

Presents four case reports of bodybuilders whose self-administered anabolic steroid programs resulted in gynecomastia, and discusses treatment strategies advocated by some bodybuilders. The actual recommended treatment is complete cessation of drugs. By dispelling unfounded treatment methods, physicians might help discourage such drug use. (SM)

Long sentences, medical terms, and small print make hospital information brochures and consent forms difficult for many patients to understand. Nurses can help patients by simplifying language, highlighting important information, and using lists. (JOW)

A variety of programs have produced changes in knowledge, behavior, and health for arthritis patients. National dissemination of patient education programs is in progress. Research needs center on new populations, delivery methods, and arthritis-specific applications of theory. (SK)

Surveys 85 health care professionals on the learning difficulties of diabetic patients. Results show that educators find it easy to teach techniques: patients master procedures well and make few mistakes. In contrast, diabetic patients seem to have problems learning skills, such as insulin dose adjustment, that require complex problem-solving.…