Evaluating the effectiveness and applicability of ubiquitous-based learning about post-operative care of gastrointestinal cancer surgery for patients’ family caregivers

Abstract

Background: Utilizing Ubiquitous - Based Learning (UBL) in health education within the hospital setting has practical support for the patient’s care. However, the application of technology in health education programs in a hospital environment is still limited. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and applicability of UBL in the post-operative care of gastrointestinal cancer surgery for patients’ family caregivers at Department of Surgery 1, Da Nang Oncology Hospital from April 2020 to February 2022. Materials and method: A quasi-experimental study was conducted on 70 family members of patients being treated after gastrointestinal cancer surgery at Department of Surgery 1, Da Nang Oncology Hospital. Results: The effectiveness of UBL: The findings revealed no significant difference between the two groups’ knowledge scores before the intervention. However, the post-test mean scores increased in both groups; in which, the intervention group’s mean score of knowledge was significantly greater compared to the control group with 3.23 ± 0.84 and 1.82 ± 0.92 respectively (p < 0.05). The applicability of UBL: All family members agreed and completely agreed on the features of UBL in family health education about caring for patients after gastrointestinal cancer surgery. Conclusion: The teaching method utilizing UBL is significantly more effective than traditional teaching methods, and it is necessary to enhance its application in health education in hospitals and the community. Key words: Ubiquitous-based Learning, Health education, gastrointestinal cancer surgery.