Preliminary feasibility of animated video education designed to empower patients’ referral to kidney transplantation

Background Referral for kidney transplantation is influenced by patient education; digital technologies can enhance broad information accessibility. This single‐group study tested the feasibility and acceptability of patient‐centered self‐directed educational animated videos to improve mediators of kidney transplant referral. Methods Community‐based adults with chronic kidney disease stage ≥4 invited from a clinical registry or self‐responding to flyers viewed eight sequential videos (19:36 min total duration) remotely on their own device. Change in kidney transplant knowledge, concerns, and confidence talking about kidney transplantation to doctors was assessed with self‐report surveys before and immediately after viewing. Program feedback was assessed by survey and self‐selected exit interview. Results Viewers of the video set (n = 50) demonstrated increases in mean kidney transplantation knowledge by +22%, confidence discussing with their doctor by +6%, and reductions in concerns by ‐2%. Knowledge results were consistent across age, race, and literacy level. Over 90% indicated positive ratings on understanding, engaging, and helpfulness. In post‐study interviews viewers indicated the videos promoted confidence in obtaining a kidney transplant and none reported that the 19‐min duration of the home education was too long. Conclusion The animated video education is promising to improve diverse individuals’ knowledge, concerns, and communication confidence about kidney transplantation and is highly acceptable.