POS0841 ENHANCING PATIENT’S UNDERSTANDING ABOUT VIDEOCAPILLAROSCOPY THROUGH VISUAL INFOGRAPHICS: AN INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIVE PROJECT
Authors: V. Gerli, F. Ingegnoli, I. Galetti, S. Ostuzzi, S. Aguilera, V. Riccieri, D. Giuggioli, R. F. Caporali, M. Cutolo, V. Smith
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2024)

<h3>Background:</h3> Nailfold videocapillaroscopy (NVC) is the non-invasive technique with which rheumatologists are most familiar and widely used in everyday practice to study microcirculation in rheumatic diseases and give a timely diagnosis [1]. Shared specific educational material, translated in different languages for patients undergoing NVC is nevertheless not yet available [2]. Recently, infographics have been used to educate health professionals, trainees, and patients about medical and public health topics. These infographics were strategically designed to serve as a vital conduit for disseminating research findings and fostering effective patient communication and patient engagement. Their purpose is multifaceted, primarily aiming to bridge the gap between complex medical procedures and patient understanding. <h3>Objectives:</h3> The purpose of this international collaborative study is to propose a free downloadable infographic on NVC for patients translated into different languages. A practical, clear and informative infographic that gives insight into NVC, co-designed by clinicians and patient representatives. <h3>Methods:</h3> The infographic was developed by a team of healthcare professionals and european patient representatives, following a step-by-step approach. Each step underwent a multi-stage review process. This study involved the following phases: a) the development of medical infographics through the elaboration of the potential questions and answers (Q&amp;As) in Italian and translated into English; b) the Q&amp;As were discussed with the members of the Study Group on Microcirculation in Rheumatic Diseases of the Italian Society of Rheumatology (CAPSIR, CAPSIR_4) and of the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR, SG_MC/RD27) during the annual meetings; c) to produce a lay version and assessment of readability and comprehension was set up with the help of european patient representatives; d) the Q&amp;As will be shared with pediatric rheumatologists to produce an infographic version for children and adolescents; e) to foster dissemination and translation in other languages other networks on rheumatic diseases will be involved; f) production of graphical version. <h3>Results:</h3> Based on the rheumatologists and european patient representatives collaboration the following six Q&amp;As were produced: 1) Why is NVC performed? The test is useful in rheumatology for an early diagnosis of rare and complex connective tissue diseases such as systemic sclerosis, mixed connective tissue disease, myositis, undifferentiated connective tissue disease, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, antiphospholipid syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Sjögren's syndrome; 2) How is the exam performed? Blood microcirculation is observed by placing a probe (a magnifying glass with a micro camera) around the nails of all the fingers sequentially, except the thumb. The exam is carried out at a constant temperature; 3) What does the NVC examination evaluate? Capillaroscopy is used to evaluate the number, size, and shape of capillaries around the nail; 4) Is specific preparation for the exam necessary? Manicures and any type of nail polish must be avoided 2 weeks before the exam; 5) How long is the exam? The exam lasts a maximum of 10 to 20 minutes; 6) Are there any contraindications? It is not an invasive test, it is not painful, it is a harmless test (it simply uses a magnifying glass) and there are no contraindications. In the next steps, other rheumatology networks will be involved and Q&amp;As will be presented in a visual format. <h3>Conclusion:</h3> A stepwise approach was applied to develop an infographic for patients on NVC. We presented the Q&amp;As that will be included in the graphic version that will be presented during the next EULAR annual meeting. This infographic can help combat misinformation and encourage adult and young patients to perform the exam. <h3>REFERENCES:</h3> [1] Autoimmun Rev. 2020 Mar;19(3):102458. [2] Reumatismo 2022; 74 (3): 97-102. <h3>Acknowledgements:</h3> <b>NIL.</b> <h3>Disclosure of Interests:</h3> <b>None declared.</b>