OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a single-session, interactive computer-based educational program on knowledge, compliance and quality of life in heart failure patients with special emphasis on gender differences.

METHODS: One hundred and fifty-four patients, mean age 70 years, from five heart failure clinics were randomised to either receiving only standard education (n = 72) or standard education and additional computer-based education (n = 82).

RESULTS: Knowledge was increased in both groups after 1 month with a trend towards higher knowledge (P = 0.07) in the computer-based group. The increase in knowledge was significantly higher in the computer-based group after 6 months (P = 0.03). No differences were found between the groups with regard to compliance with treatment and self-care or quality of life. The women had significantly lower quality of life and did not improve after 6 months as the men did (P = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION: Computer-based education gave increased knowledge about heart failure. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Computers can be a useful tool in heart failure education, but to improve compliance a single-session educational intervention is not sufficient. Gender differences in learning and quality of life should be further evaluated.