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PWE-078 Patient empowerment in Irritable bowel syndrome: development of an educational leaflet

Introduction Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent functional gastrointestinal disorder. Previous studies showed that ‘Acceptance’ can predict quality of life and illness behaviour [1]. A patient education leaflet (EL) was developed to promote patient education and thus patient acceptance and empowerment. Methods 30 consecutive patients attending a Specialist Motility clinic at a Tertiary referral centre completed a questionnaire to identify current patients’ knowledge on IBS. Patients were asked to suggest what type of information and in what format, they felt was needed. The data was collected and analysed. Based on patients’ preferences an EL was developed. EL included definition, symptoms, causes, and management of IBS. EL was then distributed to patients attending clinics and their views on this leaflet were recorded. Results Only 30% of patients received information regarding their condition prior to attending the Specialist clinic. 60% of patients expressed the need for further education regarding their symptoms and management. 57% of patients preferred information in the form of a leaflet and only 30% requested workshops on IBS or an app in addition to EL. Workshops were suggested as an additional more interactive approach. Patients’ preference for EL was to include an extra session on pathophysiology of symptoms. No correlation was noted between the duration of symptoms and patients’ knowledge. One patient (4%) did not find that the education provided via EL helped them understand their condition or symptoms (see Figure 1).Abstract PWE-078 Figure 1 Has the education leaflet helped you understand your condition or symptoms? Conclusions This study demonstrates the need for patient education and empowerment in IBS. The EL was well received. Patients were keen on gastrointestinal pathophysiology and lifestyle changes as addressed in the leaflet. Patients’ educational needs may be enriched with additional workshops and future App-development. It would be of interest to perform a second questionnaire to assess patients’ quality of life and management of IBS symptoms before and after utilization of EL. The patients’ educational level should be accounted for in future studies to ensure appropriate deliverance of EL in IBS patients with learning difficulties. Reference Ferreira, et al., 2011. Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to understand and improve outcomes in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Gastrointestinal Nursing; vol. 9 (9): 2–5.