An Evaluation of the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Multimedia Program (Mystay Cardiac) in the Context of Acute Cardiac Care.

BACKGROUND

Coronary heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide with treatments including invasive surgical procedures coronary artery bypass grafting and heart valve replacement surgery. The creation of innovative multimedia health programs has the potential to support patient engagement at the bedside. The MyStay Cardiac multimedia program was developed to support patient engagement in the acute phase of postoperative recovery.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a multimedia program (MyStay Cardiac).

METHODS

A prospective cohort study utilizing a concurrent mixed methods approach. Feasibility and acceptability were measured by determining (i) patient engagement and (ii) patient and external factors impacting individual use of MyStay Cardiac.

RESULTS

A total of 19 participants were recruited and most participants independently used MyStay Cardiac. There was a significant association between participants' total score on Health Literacy Questionnaire Domain 8 "Ability to find good health information," the total number of postoperative complications experienced, and experiencing postoperative cardiac arrhythmias and independent use of MyStay Cardiac. Factors enabling feasibility and acceptability of MyStay Cardiac included (i) program design and resources, (ii) participant health literacy, and (iii) social supports. Factors impeding feasibility and acceptability of MyStay Cardiac included (i) unstable internet, (ii) patient acuity and postoperative complications, and (iii) inconsistencies in information provided between clinicians and MyStay Cardiac.

CONCLUSION

MyStay Cardiac is a feasible and acceptable multimedia program for patient engagement in the context of acute cardiac care. Further investigation is needed to evaluate if the implementation of multimedia health programs results in improved patient outcomes.