The Effect of an Avatar-Based Education Program on Shunt Complications and Parents' Knowledge and Care Skills

Hydrocephalus is a common childhood neurosurgical disease. Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is usually used in the treatment of hydrocephalus. However, VP shunt may have some complications. In developed countries, the incidence of hydrocephalus is 1 per 1000 live births. In developing countries, it is 3-4 per 1000 live births. A multidisciplinary approach is important in the treatment and care of hydrocephalus. Parents need guidance and training for hydrocephalus treatment and care. Nurses should help parents solve all care-related problems. Technology-based nursing interventions have become popular in recent years because they make life easier for children with chronic diseases and their parents who should avoid non-emergency hospital visits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Investigators need innovative and interactive technology-based interventions to provide patients and their parents with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage chronic diseases. This study also focused on an avatar-based education program because avatars are interactive icons that provide intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for parents. Therefore Investigators develop an Avatar-based education program in Hydrocephalus (ABEP-H) and prove its effectiveness in reducing shunt complications and helping parents acquire the knowledge and develop the skills necessary for the care of their children with hydrocephalus.