The purpose of this project was to develop an outcomes-based measurement tool that could be used to screen patients for learning barriers. A comprehensive, objective tool to assess for patient learning barriers was developed and implemented in an outpatient/ Stage II Cardiac Rehabilitation program. Definitions for seven barriers to learning, along with criteria to identify their presence, were compiled from the current literature and incorporated into the design of the outcomesbased tool. Utilization of the learning barrier tool may provide an objective, outcomes-based methodology for the identification of patient learning barriers, allowing educators to individualize patient education.

Of the 152 participants who took part in the telephone follow-up, 19% reported a hospital admission with a cardiovascular diagnosis during the 12-month follow-up period. Twenty-one percent reported meeting all of their goals; 56%, some of their goals; and 23%, none of their goals. All stated that the educational sessions met their informational needs, and 75% preferred the Leap for Life setting over other educational settings. CONCLUSION AND NEXT STEPS: These data provide initial validation of the program and are being used as a starting point for another assessment that involves individualized health enhancement measures and 6- and 12-month follow-up of participants using a survey designed to assess readiness, lifestyle changes, and quality of life.