A comic that explains palliative care: how patients experience comic-based educational material

The aim of this study was to create a patient-centered comic on palliative care with and for patients admitted to a palliative care unit and to examine their experiences of graphic educational material.

This study employed a qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews with advanced cancer patients admitted to the palliative care unit of the Medical University of Vienna. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis with the assistance of the MAXQDA software.

In the first phase of the comic creation 6 interviews were conducted and 15 additional interviews in the second phase, all of which examined patients' reactions to the comic. The findings revealed three themes: 1) patients' experiences with and understanding of graphics about palliative care, 2) patients' perceptions of the possibilities for use of the comic and 3) how the visual material facilitated access to the patients' shared imagination and interpretations. The medium generated curiosity, participation, and positive reactions. Patients were inclined to be involved in patient-centered educational material that enabled an entry into conversations and connection, giving access to feelings and associations of patients.

The results of the present study offer insights into mostly positive reactions of patients when presented with a comic about palliative care. The study showed how illustrated educational information led to deepened conversation among the interviewer and the patients, offering insights into their experiences and imagination.