Web-Based Tools for Educating Caregivers About Childhood Fever A Randomized Controlled Trial

摘要

Objectives: Fever is a common reason for an emergency department visit andmisconceptions abound. We assessed the effectiveness of an interactive Web-based module (WBM), read-only Web site (ROW), and written and verbal information (standard of care [SOC]) to educate caregivers about fever in their children. Methods: Caregivers in the emergency department were randomized to a WBM, ROW, or SOC. Primary outcome was the gain score on a novel questionnaire testing knowledge surrounding measurement and management of fever. Secondary outcome was caregiver satisfaction with the interventions. Results: There were 77, 79, and 77 participants in the WBM, ROW, and SOC groups, respectively. With a maximum of 33 points, Web-based interventionswere associated with a significantmean (SD) pretest to immediate posttest gain score of 3.5 (4.2) forWBM(P ROW>SOC (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Web-based interventions are associated with significant improvements in caregiver knowledge about fever and high caregiver satisfaction. These interventions should be used to educate caregivers pending the demonstration of improved patient-centered outcomes.