Adventist Health White Memorial, Los Angeles, CA
Mark Sueyoshi, Arthur Olch, Natalie Johns, Jordan Afaga, Kenneth Wong
Background: Comics can address topics in medicine and other facets of life in a format that is widely accessible. Literature suggests that Human-Centered Design strategies can reduce child/caregiver anxiety prior to radiation therapy. Thus, appropriately designed comics can bridge the gap between the practical realities of radiotherapy, like understanding the importance of remaining still in immobilization molds and the pediatric patient's desire for imagination and play. Similar patient-care interventions have been implemented in the form of toys, games, and books. The aim of this project was to draw out best practices in the development of a comic to prepare patients for radiotherapy. Methods: Comic production underwent an iterative process whereby a multidisciplinary team of a radiation oncology department defined a set of principles and goals. An artist then developed several drafts with the input of staff, patients, and family. Readability for the intended audience was assessed by established readability tests. Results: A 25-panel comic draft was produced by the multidisciplinary team that explained in simple terms how radiotherapy is used in a relatable and entertaining way. The dialogue was developed to accommodate the education level of both pediatric patients and caregiver(s) with the intention to be read as a shared experience. The Automated Reliability Index, Flesch Kincaid Grade Level, and Gunning-Fox Index measured readability as fourth, less than sixth, and sixth grade, respectively. The messages included an explanation of radiation, its necessity and likely side effects, the important alliance with the radiation oncology staff, and the central role of the patient. Conclusions: The development of a clear, succinct, and entertaining comic that is relatable to children undergoing radiotherapy is a challenging process, especially in a world awash with competing media. However, a graphic medium can provide an opportunity to convey information and reassurance for both the patient and family. Comics have the potential for greater patient satisfaction over traditional methods of information dissemination. Next steps will involve clinic-wide validation using standardized anxiety and family impact assessment tools.
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