학술논문

Development and feasibility of an oral health e-learning program for long-term Japanese overseas workers: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Document Type
Original Paper
Source
BMC Oral Health. 23(1)
Subject
Overseas worker
Information-motivation-behavioural skills
Oral health
Self-care
E-learning program
Randomized controlled trial
Language
English
ISSN
1472-6831
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an oral health self-care e-learning intervention for overseas workers as well as the research procedures for a future controlled trial.Methods: We randomly allocated participants to either the intervention (n = 48) or control (n = 51) group. The intervention group received a standardized leaflet plus a theory-based oral health e-learning program. The control group received only the standardized leaflet. We assessed health behaviour related to fluoride toothpaste use, oral care knowledge, motivation, oral care self-efficacy, and oral health related quality of life (QoL). Chi-square and t test analyses were performed to make comparisons between the two groups. To evaluate the research process, participants in the intervention group were asked open-ended questions to assess the acceptability and feasibility of the research procedures in practice.Results: A total of 82 participants (Intervention = 36, Control = 46) were included in the analysis. The dropout rate was 17.2%. The modal time taken to complete the e-learning intervention was more than 30 min (33.3%). Of the 36 respondents in the intervention group, 27 (70.4%) said that the e-learning intervention had changed their behaviour. At the three months follow-up, oral care knowledge alone was improved in the e-learning group.Conclusion: This pilot study provides evidence that the theory-based self-care for oral health e-learning intervention is feasible in overseas workers. Next, this feasible and acceptable pilot study should be used with an appropriate sample size in a randomized controlled trial.Trial registration: The trial protocol was registered with UMIN-CTR (ID: UMIN000045883) on 27/10/2021.