Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was conducted to develop educational materials for preventing type B viral hepatitis infection. Prior to this study, a survey had been conducted to define the educational needs of persons with hepatitis B antigen.
METHOD
Based on the results of the former study and a review of the literature, the content of the educational materials was confined to the transmission cycle and its prevention in type B hepatitis. A professional team that consisted of writers and producers videotaped the lectures provided by professors and instructors in a nursing school. A professional graphic designer produced the leaflet to enhance the visual effects.
RESULTS
The contents of the educational materials for type B hepatitis were composed of six parts: (1) the prevalence rate (or morbidity) of type B hepatitis antigen positive and its recent trend, (2) transformation of hepatitis, (3) transmission cycle of hepatitis infection, (4) persons who are susceptible to hepatitis and need a vaccination, (5) preventive approach - hepatitis vaccination and the guideline for patients' daily lives for preventing infection and (6) questions and answers. The materials were delivered in the form of lectures, visual charts, graphics, and multi-media.
CONCLUSION
The educational materials developed in this study may provide practical information and knowledge on strategies to prevent type B hepatitis. The educational materials may be utilized in primary health care centers or school health services.