Evaluation of an Educational Intervention on Infectious Risk Knowledge and Vaccination Experience in Patients Without a Functioning Spleen at an Intra-hospital Outpatient Clinic

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying patients who have had their spleen removed or have a non-functioning spleen, a condition known as asplenia, which increases the risk of serious infections like overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI). This research evaluates how an educational intervention improves patient knowledge and awareness of infection risks and preventive measures. The study is observational and conducted at a single academic hospital, focusing on vaccination and infection prevention in these patients. The study involves an educational intervention delivered by the hospital's vaccination team during inpatient consultations. Patients receive information about asplenia-related infection risks and preventive steps, including vaccination schedules for diseases such as pneumococcus, meningococcus, and influenza. Educational materials like brochures and vaccination schedules support this intervention. Patient knowledge and attitudes are assessed before and after the intervention using questionnaires. Those completing the vaccination process also share their experience with vaccination management. Participants are followed over time through outpatient visits or phone interviews to monitor vaccination uptake, schedule completion, and ongoing care after discharge. Clinical, demographic, and vaccination data are collected and stored securely following privacy standards. The main outcome measured is the change in knowledge and risk perception about infections over 24 months. Secondary outcomes include patient experience with vaccination, links between knowledge and demographics, and adherence to the vaccination pathway.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention in Splenectomized Patients