The use of video for patient information and education: a scoping review of the variability and effectiveness of interventions

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of video interventions used for patient information and education, and of the tools used to evaluate their effectiveness, in order to consider the feasibility of developing generic guidelines and appraisal tools for the use of video in patient care. METHODS: A scoping review was carried out to describe and synthesise emerging knowledge, using thematic analysis of data. Studies focussed upon videos for health professional education were excluded, as were those which consider the impact of videos available via social media. RESULTS: A narrative overview of 65 identified papers provides insight into the range and scope of studies. Common themes emerge, notably the aim of reducing anxiety and the variety of instruments designed to measure this. The use of self-report questionnaires was common, but their design is variable. CONCLUSION: Targeted video-based intervention can improve patient experience and outcomes. High utility guidelines and appraisal tools, transferable between contexts, are needed to facilitate deployments at scale for sustainable outcomes. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Video production guidelines and appraisal tools will be of value to those engaged in video development and deployment. Guidance should be based upon emerging evidence of effectiveness and incorporate an emphasis on reusability.