Evaluating patient learning after an educational program for women with incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis: This study investigated changes in participant knowledge, symptoms, and condition-specific quality of life after a 2.5-h nurse-ran workshop on pelvic floor health.

Methods: Data were collected prospectively on a convenience cohort of 51 women who completed questionnaires before, immediately after, and 3 months after the workshop.

Results: Participant response rate for questionnaire completion at 3 months was 83%. The median preworkshop knowledge score was 28/39 and median scores immediately postworkshop and at 3 months were 36/39 and 33/39. Knowledge scores were significantly higher immediately postworkshop (p < 0.01) and 3 months post (p < 0.01) when compared with knowledge scores preworkshop. Symptom and quality-of-life scores significantly improved from baseline to 3 months (Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire: mean difference = 14.2, p = 0.005, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.7-23.8; Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory: mean difference = 17.4, p < 0.001, 95% CI 8.3-26.5).

Conclusion: Women's knowledge, symptoms, and quality-of-life scores significantly improved at 3 months compared to baseline preworkshop scores.