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Web-based Renal Transplant Patient Medication System

Project Final Report (PDF, 420.27 KB) Disclaimer

Project Details -
Completed

The aim of this study was to assess whether or not an interactive educational program about immunosuppressive medications would improve medication compliance in renal transplant recipients. The educational program chosen as the experiment intervention was an interactive, Internet-based program. This study investigated two different renal transplant populations; the first was new transplant recipients and the second was established renal transplant recipients. The inclusion criteria were broad - age greater than 18, sixth grade reading level, and ability to use a computer without special assistant devices. Specific to our patient population, the study modules and all materials were written in both English and Spanish. Both study groups were randomized and followed prospectively at pre-determined intervals. Patient compliance was assessed by testing recall for both type of medication and its purpose. To avoid bias, both groups were administered the test prior to the study group receiving the educational module. The results found that use of an interactive, Internet based learning tool did not improve medication compliance as compared to usual care. Overall medication compliance was better than anticipated, suggesting that participation in a research study on medication compliance stressed the importance of medication compliance and had a positive effect (Hawthorne Effect).