Development and Pilot Study of Cognitive Load Theory-Based Educational Video Content for Postoperative Symptom Management in Patients Undergoing Gastrectomy

Purpose : This study aimed to develop educational video content for patients undergoing gastrectomy based on Cognitive Load Theory.Methods : A non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest, non-synchronized design was used. The educational video content was developed using the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADDIE) model, and guided by Cognitive Load Theory. In the pilot study, the control group received usual care, while the experimental group received the developed educational intervention. The effects of the intervention were then evaluated.Results : By applying five Cognitive Load Theory-based strategies, a six-session short-form educational video program for patients undergoing gastrectomy was designed and developed. Following the intervention, the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher self-care confidence (4.21± 0.39) and cancer-coping behavior scores (3.91±0.16) than the control group (3.89±0.30 and 3.64±0.18, respectively) (Z=-2.41, <i>p</i> =.015; Z=-3.74, <i>p</i> ＜.001).Conclusion : The Cognitive Load Theory-based educational video content was effective in improving patients’ self-care confidence and cancer-coping behaviors. Future efforts should focus on expanding this program into a comprehensive digital nursing intervention that incorporates interactive engagement features and long-term follow-up.