A Questionnaire Survey for Proper Education of Atopic Dermatitis.
- Author:
Eun Jin DOH
1
;
Mira CHOI
;
Ji Soo LIM
;
Hyun Sun YOON
;
Dong Hun LEE
;
Kyu Han KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Dermatology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea. kyuhkim@snu.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Atopic dermatitis;
Questionnaire;
Therapeutic education
- MeSH:
Caregivers;
Dermatitis, Atopic*;
Dermatology;
Education*;
Humans;
Korea;
National Health Programs;
Recurrence;
Seoul;
Steroids;
Water;
Weaning
- From:Korean Journal of Dermatology
2017;55(6):329-336
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Therapeutic education is important for successful management of atopic dermatitis (AD). OBJECTIVE: To provide effective therapeutic education, clear common misunderstandings, and answer questions regarding AD among patients and caregivers. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was conducted for patients and caregivers who visited the Department of Dermatology at Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea, regarding the course, etiology, and management of AD. RESULTS: Among the 327 subjects who participated in the study, only 35.2% were aware of the natural course of AD, which usually improves with age. Many subjects (53.2%) misinterpret AD relapse as resistance to topical steroids. We found that 87.8% of subjects were under the impression that improvement in a patient's immunity can improve the symptoms of AD. Dietary restriction was considered an essential management strategy, and 59.0% of subjects agreed to delay the initiation of weaning foods. Most subjects did not have accurate information about cleansing methods, and 30.9% of subjects reported that they used only water without any cleanser. We noted that 47.5% of subjects obtained information regarding AD from medical doctors who they considered the most reliable sources (82.5%). Subjects preferred printed materials (41.3%) over seminars or video-clips to obtain educational information. CONCLUSION: Therapeutic education regarding the course, etiology, and management of AD using printed materials put together by physicians would be a valuable tool for the effective management of AD. Institutional support such as educational programs covered by the National Health Insurance Service is required.
