The effectiveness of a multimedia education versus a standard education program in the self-management of central venous catheters for long-term use: A systematic review

This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of multimedia education compared to standard approaches for people with central venous access devices for long-term use. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL Complete until January 2025. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Ten studies were identified (832 patients), including six randomized controlled trials and four quasi-experimental studies. Seven multimedia educational programs used asynchronous methods (e.g. pre-recorded videos or presentations), while three employed synchronous approaches (e.g. tele-visits or virtual communities). Five studies assessed short-term knowledge, with two showing significant improvements and three reporting no differences. Skill acquisition improved in two studies. Cumulative catheter complications decreased in two studies, though findings on specific issues were mixed. These findings suggest potential benefits of multimedia education in patient care, but methodological limitations and study variability render the evidence inconclusive, underscoring the need for high-quality research.