• E A Siegert, E C Clipp, P Mulhausen, and G Kochersberger.
• Department of Geriatric Research, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, NC, USA.
• Arch Fam Med. 1996 Apr 1; 5 (4): 207-12.

ObjectiveTo examine the effects of an advance directive videotape on patient comprehension of advance directive concepts and preferences for resuscitation.DesignPilot study, randomized cohort trial.SettingExtended Care and Rehabilitation Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC.ParticipantsThirty-six residents of the center; mean age, 69 years.InterventionsSixteen subjects observed an advance directive videotape, and 20 subjects observed a health-relative videotape. All subjects received written material and counseling on advance directives.MeasurementStructured interviews were conducted at three time points relative to the educational program (pretest, posttest, delayed posttest), measuring comprehension of two advance directive concepts (living will and cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and resuscitation preferences based on hypothetical clinical vignettes. Mean comprehension and mean resuscitation preference scores were derived for each time point.ResultsThe mean comprehension score improved an average of 1.6 points for all subjects from pretest to delayed posttest (P < .001); however, score changes were not significantly different between the two video groups (P = .39). Mean resuscitation preference scores were stable over time, and there were no significant score differences between the two video groups.ConclusionThe advance directive videotape did not significantly affect resuscitation preferences or comprehension of selected advance directive concepts.

18 keywords...

hide…