Identification of Learning Needs of Patients Hospitalized at a University Hospital

Objectives: This study was designed as a descriptive trial aimed at identifying learning needs of patients hospitalized at a university hospital and understanding whether these learning needs vary depending on certain patient characteristics.

Methods: The study sample consisted of 1190 patients/caregivers hospitalized at all departments except for the psychiatry clinic, who were planned to be discharged from the hospital. Data were collected using Patient Information Form and the Patient Learning Needs Scale (PLNS).

Results: The evaluation of responses to the PLNS and its subscales revealed that the mean scores were 26.93±10.62 for drugs; 26.15±11.43 for activities of living; 19.78±5.54 for community and follow up; 16.86± 5.47 for feelings related to condition; 34.3±6.99 for treatment and complications; 28.20±7.40 for enhancing quality of life; and 13.64±6.54 for skin care. The PLNS total mean score was 165.95±45.44.

Conclusion: According to the evaluation of the PLNS total score, patient learning needs vary depending on age, gender, occupation, level of education, the departments at which the respondent is treated, and whether the respondent is the patient him/herself or the caregiver.