Engaging with parents to develop innovative knowledge translation tools that merge research and story

Session: 

Oral session: Knowledge translation and communicating evidence (4)

Date: 

Monday 17 September 2018 - 12:00 to 12:20

Location: 

Carrick 1

All authors in correct order:

Hartling L1, Scott S2
1 Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta and Cochrane Child Health, Canada
2 Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Canada
Presenting author and contact person

Presenting author:

Lisa Hartling

Contact person:

Lisa Hartling
Abstract text
Background: The emergency care of children results in considerable financial, emotional, and resource implications for families, health systems and society. Many visits are for minor conditions that could be more aptly treated in other settings or at home (e.g. sore throats, ear infections). Knowledge translation (KT) initiatives that involve parents and emphasize their role as a partner in health, can inform their decision-making, shape treatment expectations, and influence healthcare utilization. We have built a successful model of developing, evaluating, and disseminating KT tools (eBooks, whiteboards, videos) based on the best available synthesized research evidence and the power of arts and story.

Objectives: To demonstrate:
1) our model of engaging parents to develop, evaluate and disseminate KT e-tools;
2) our KT e-tools; and
3) results of usability testing.

Methods: Based on a national parent needs assessment (n = 1097) we select priority health conditions. Using qualitative methods, we interview parents about their experiences of having a child with the conditions being studied. Concomitantly we conduct systematic reviews of the best available research for management of the conditions. Working with creative writers and graphic designers, we develop composite narratives, then integrate synthesized research evidence to develop e-books, whiteboards and interactive infographics. We seek feedback from parents and pediatric emergency healthcare professionals on prototypes. Following refinement, we conduct usability testing, assessing 10 aspects on a 5-point Likert scale (e.g. aesthetics, functionality, understandability). Once usability testing is completed, additional refinements are made and the e-tools are embedded in national platforms for pediatric healthcare.

Results/Conclusions: To date, we have developed nine KT tools for parents focused on croup, gastroenteritis, chronic pain, procedural pain, acute otitis media, and fever. We are currently developing parent tools for bronchiolitis and urinary tract infections. Our focus on developing KT tools for parents is novel and complements other initiatives that target healthcare providers. The model we have developed is transferable to other clinical areas and geographic regions.

Patient or healthcare consumer involvement: Parents are involved in all aspects of the research.

Relevance to patients and consumers: 

This presentation will describe a program of research that aims to develop evidence-based knowledge translation tools for parents of children with acute health conditions. We involve parents throughout the work to identify priority topics, gather data on their experiences and information needs, develop prototypes, and evaluate final products for usability. We integrate evidence from systematic reviews with parents’ stories and experiences, and use innovative media (whiteboard animation videos, interactive infographics) to generate resources to inform decisions regarding the care of children with common acute illnesses.