Implementation of a Video Teaching Tool to Enhance Diabetes Health Literacy Among Adult Amputees in Ecuador

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to assess the usability and feasibility of a video educational tool to improve diabetes health literacy among patients of Clinica Prótesis Imbabura (CPI) who use prosthetic limbs. Introduction: Health literacy is essential for diabetes management, especially in low-literacy populations. At CPI, enhancing patient understanding of diabetes is a key component to improving health outcomes. This project evaluated a culturally and linguistically tailored educational video to improve diabetes health literacy among patients of CPI. Methods: A culturally and linguistically tailored educational video about diabetes was created by a team, comprised of undergraduate and graduate nursing students, including those who were native Ecuadorian Spanish speakers. Patients at CPI and their family members were asked to watch the 10-minute video and participate in a follow-up interview. Interviews were conducted during routine clinic visits from August 20-22, 2024. Clinic staff also viewed the video and participated in follow-up interviews. In total, there were 24 participants. Results: All participants said the video increased their understanding of diabetes. Participants noted that the video was very helpful, however, the video’s duration made it difficult to stay engaged. Discussion: This project demonstrates the potential of video education as an effective tool for improving health literacy, especially in low-literacy populations. For the nursing field, it emphasizes the importance of culturally and linguistically tailored education to enhance patient understanding. Shorter videos, ideally five minutes or less, may further improve comprehension. Future steps involve editing the current video into smaller segments.