Information leaflets: are they effective ? S Mathers* +, R Chesson + *NHS Grampian + The Health Services Research Group.

Examinations were described...invasive in nature, routine to hospital staff but unique and strange to patients. Wilson-Barnett, 1985.

...high-tech imaging in a low touch world... Murphy, 1999

Main aims establish participants level of knowledge of CT scanning prior to scan determine how patients use the information provided

Participants –150 non-emergency first-time attenders for CT scanning referred by hospital consultants Ethical approval was gained

Methodology Phase 1: -postal questionnaire sent prior to receiving appointment and information material Phase 2: - telephone interview prior to attending but after receipt of the information material

To assess patients knowledge of CT scanning 12 basic questions e.g. 1. A CT scan is a specialised x-ray examination where pictures are taken of the inside of your body. 2. You will be asked to lie still. 3. You will be asked to hold your breath. Options: True, False, Dont know.

Results 77% response rate (n=115) Mean age 55.7years (range years) 35 men and 47 women

Results 30% correctly identified they were to have a CT scan Use of information –50% read it on arrival –40% read it more than once –67% showed it to someone else –3 did not read it at all

Knowledge of CT scanning Prior to receiving leaflet 5.58 (range 0-12) Post receipt of leaflet 9.1 (range 4-12)

Conclusions Information leaflets are effective in increasing patients knowledge of CT scanning Patients do use the information material they are given

Acknowledgements Grampian University Hospitals NHS Trust Endowment Fund,