The development of patient information leaflets. Care of the mouth after radiotherapy.
OBJECTIVE
Describe the methodology used to produce a patient leaflet on care of the mouth after radiotherapy.


METHODS
Prospective study to design a patient information leaflet.


METHODS
Patients undergoing radiotherapy for oral cancer.


METHODS
After a review of the relevant literature, a patient questionnaire was produced. This was then completed by patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment and gave an indication of the problems being encountered. Healthcare professionals were surveyed for their views. A leaflet was then produced according to published guidelines. It was taken back to another group of patients and a further version produced after input from a health promotion group.


RESULTS
A leaflet was produced after wide consultation and survey.


CONCLUSIONS
Considerable effort must to be put into the production to patient information leaflet. It must be discussed with patients in the target group if it is to be sensitive, understood and find acceptance among its users.
Zakrzewska
J M
JM
Dept of Oral Medicine, St Bartholomew's, London.
Leeson
R M
RM
Mcluskey
M
M
Vickers
M
M
D016371:Cranial Irradiation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003812:Dentist-Patient Relations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009059:Mouth Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy; D009910:Oral Hygiene / Q000193:education*; D010174:Pamphlets; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires