Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026
FISH for Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis
Published on: February 23, 2011
A randomized trial of a prenatal genetic testing interactive computerized information aid
Lynn M Yee1, Michael Wolf, Rebecca Mullen
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to determine whether an interactive computer program could improve patient knowledge regarding genetic screening and diagnostic concepts.
Methods:
In this randomized trial, women 6-26 weeks' gestation were assigned to standard care with provider-based counseling or to augmented counseling with an interactive computer program. The computer-based tool conveyed information about genetic testing options. Women were administered a 23-item test of content knowledge immediately and 2-4 weeks after exposure. Test scores were compared between groups at both points using T-tests.
Results:
A total of 150 women were randomized equally between groups. Groups were similar with regard to demographic characteristics. Women randomized to the interactive tool correctly answered a significantly greater proportion of questions than those who received standard counseling (69.4% ± 14.2% vs. 46.0% ± 15.2%, p < 0.001) on the immediate questionnaire. One hundred and twenty-three (82%) participants participated in the follow-up test. Women randomized to the tool continued to correctly answer a significantly greater proportion of questions (60.6% ± 16% vs. 49.7% ± 18.9%, p = 0.001). Education, health literacy, electronic health literacy, and other discussions with providers were not associated with a differential benefit from the educational intervention.
Conclusion:
A patient-directed interactive computer program may help providers to convey relevant information about genetic screening and diagnostic concepts.
