Medical Alert Cards for patients with an anorectal malformation: a useful tool to increase awareness.

Creator(s)

Elizaveta Bokova, Children's Mercy Kansas CityFollow
Ismael Elhalaby, Children's Mercy Kansas City
Ninad Prasade, Children's Mercy Kansas City
Margaret Jo Martin-McLain, Children's Mercy Kansas CityFollow
Wendy E. Lewis, Children's Mercy Kansas CityFollow
Christine N. Feira, Children's Mercy Kansas CityFollow
Irene Isabel P. Lim, Children's Mercy Kansas CityFollow
Rebecca M. Rentea, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-10-2024

Identifier

DOI: 10.1007/s00383-024-05886-8

Abstract

PURPOSE: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are rare congenital anomalies causing altered anatomy and frequent hospitalizations. Parental awareness and clear communication are crucial in family-centered care. This study assesses the impact of patient-held ARM Medical Alert Cards on healthcare providers and caregivers.

METHODS: Caregivers of children with ARMs, including cloacal anomalies, received Medical Alert Cards with (1) contact details; (2) disease-related information; and (3) patient-specific data. A survey evaluated these cards' effectiveness in enhancing ARM awareness among healthcare professionals and caregivers.

RESULTS: Among 33 respondents, 29 (88%) found the cards helpful in increasing ARM awareness. Both caregivers and providers found the content coherent, with a median readability score of 9 (IQR 8-10). The card layout was well-received by 30 out of 32 respondents (94%), and all noted the clarity of the contact details, facilitating patient referrals to specialized care. Most caregivers (13 out of 14, 93%) expressed willingness to use these cards in medical settings. Suggestions for improvement included adding more patient-specific information, enhancing readability, and providing visual anatomy diagram.

CONCLUSION: Medical Alert Cards for patients with ARMs can enhance understanding of ARMs among caregivers and healthcare providers, serving as a vital tool in patient-centered management strategies tailored to individual needs.

Journal Title

Pediatric surgery international

Volume

40

Issue

1

First Page

301

Last Page

301

MeSH Keywords

Humans; Anorectal Malformations; Female; Male; Parents; Surveys and Questionnaires; Caregivers; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Child

Keywords

Anorectal malformation; Cloaca; Family-centered care; Healthcare communication; Medical Alert Cards; Pediatric surgery

Recommended Citation

Bokova E, Elhalaby I, Prasade N, et al. Medical Alert Cards for patients with an anorectal malformation: a useful tool to increase awareness. Pediatr Surg Int. 2024;40(1):301. Published 2024 Nov 10. doi:10.1007/s00383-024-05886-8