Impact of Implementing Structured Compensatory Methods on Knowledge and Awareness of Cognitive Dysfunction Management Among Neurological Disorder Patients in Vijayapur Hospitals
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26463/rjns.15_1_12Keywords:
Cognitive impairment, Neurological disorders, Structured compensatory techniques, Patient education, Knowledge assessmentAbstract
Background: Cognitive impairment hinders thinking, learning, memory, and decision-making, with symptoms like memory loss, poor concentration, and mood changes. It can result from neurotoxicity, ischemia, or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Objectives: The study aimed to assess knowledge about cognitive impairment, evaluate the effectiveness of structured compensatory techniques, and analyze the relationship between knowledge scores and sociodemographic variables.
Methodology: The study assessed the effectiveness of structured compensatory techniques in improving knowledge about cognitive impairment among neurological patients in Vijayapura hospitals. A one-group pre-test post-test design was employed, with participants being adults literate in Kannada or English and hospitalized for neurological conditions. Exclusions included those unwilling to participate or with severe cognitive impairments. Data were gathered using a validated self-administered questionnaire over four weeks. Pre-test scores (mean 15.61) showed significant improvement post-intervention (mean 18.80, P < 0.05), highlighting the importance of educational programs to enhance knowledge in this group.
Results: Pre-test results revealed a mean knowledge score of 15.61 (SD ± 3.86), which improved to 18.80 (SD ± 3.85) post-intervention. Before the intervention, 76.7% (46 respondents) had average knowledge, 15% (9) had good knowledge, and 8.3% (5) had poor knowledge. Post-intervention, 68.3% (41) displayed average knowledge, while 31.7% (19) showed good knowledge. A paired t-test indicated a statistically significant improvement in scores (P < 0.05; t = 10.11).
Conclusion: The study revealed a significant improvement in knowledge about cognitive impairment and its management after implementing structured compensatory techniques, emphasizing the importance of educational programs for patients with neurological disorders.
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