Effectiveness of a Web-Based Communication Education Program in Improving Knowledge and Self-Efficacy in Family Caregivers of Nursing Home Residents: A Quasi-Experimental Study

BACKGROUND: Effective communication between family members and nursing home residents is vital. However, limited research has been conducted, especially in Asia, regarding the effectiveness of web-based communication programs in improving the communication efficacy of family members of nursing home residents. PURPOSE: In this quasi-experimental study, the effectiveness of a 4-week, nurse-led web-based communication education program (WBCEP) was evaluated in terms of improving the communication skills-related knowledge and self-efficacy of the family members of nursing home residents. METHODS: A total of 68 family members of older adult residents of medium-sized facilities (30 < n < 90) were enrolled as participants. The experimental group ( n = 34) participated i n the WBCEP, while the control group ( n = 34) did not. Data were collected at baseline and at 1 and 2 months after baseline. Generalized estimating equations were used to analyze the longitudinal effectiveness of the program. RESULTS: The experimental group improved significantly more in both communication skills knowledge and self-efficacy scores, including lagged effects, than the control group. Moreover, the experimental group reported high levels of learning satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The innovative nurse-led WBCEP implemented in this study was shown to be effective in enhancing communication skills knowledge and self-efficacy in family members of nursing home residents, contributing to overall efforts to improve family-centered care.