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Communicating with patients using a new vitamin B12 deficiency leaflet

12 December 2019
Focus
02 December 2019
Volume 28 · Issue 22

Abstract

The aim of this quality improvement project was to improve patients' knowledge about their vitamin B12 deficiency by developing an information leaflet and engaging nursing staff in providing this educational tool to patients with the condition. Following two ‘plan, do, study, act’ cycles to test and improve implementation of the leaflet, the nursing team met the goal of 100% compliance with providing educational information to patients. An increase in patient knowledge following provision of the leaflet was predicted, and achieved.

Paterick et al (2017) argued that receiving education regarding a condition is the key to patients achieving positive health outcomes and engaging in treatment. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code requires that nurses respect the impact people can have on their own health. Subsequently, nurses should work in partnership with people, assisting them to access relevant health information when needed (NMC, 2018).

The aim of this quality improvement project was to improve patients' knowledge about their vitamin B12 deficiency by creating an information leaflet and engaging nursing staff in providing this educational tool to patients with the condition. An increase in patient knowledge following provision of the leaflet was predicted. The project targeted patients with vitamin B12 deficiency attending regular appointments. As part of their treatment regimen, patients attending the treatment room received intramuscular hydroxocobalamin injections administered by nursing staff.

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Vitamin deficiencies
Public health
Service improvement
Patient education
Adherence