Research Week Abstract Book - Northern Health
Research Week Abstract Book - Northern Health
Research Week Abstract Book - Northern Health
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Haematology<br />
IMProVING Pre ChemoTHERAPY EDUCATION ProCess FOR PATIENTS IN THE<br />
Day ONCOLOGY UNIT<br />
Gwynne M, Probst K, Edwards M, Cooney M.<br />
Background:<br />
Pre chemotherapy education is an integral part of patients’ treatment journey. Education in the Day Oncology Unit was<br />
performed on the day of the patients’ first treatment, with an allocated time frame of 30 minutes. Concerns were raised from<br />
nursing staff that patients’ anxiety levels were high and too much information was given on their first treatment, resulting in<br />
patients’ feeling overwhelmed.<br />
Staff also felt that 30 minutes was not enough time to interact and allow the patient quality time to raise their concerns,<br />
Aims:<br />
To provide a structured chemotherapy education process, allowing sufficient time for nurse and patient, provide a physical<br />
space away from treatment area for education and to decrease patient anxiety prior to treatment.<br />
Method:<br />
A project group was formed, and literature reviews were conducted. A study conducted by Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute<br />
in 2008 on ‘Reducing Stress in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy’ was reviewed, as well as relevant oncology evidence<br />
based websites.<br />
Results:<br />
Based on the literature review, in January 2012 a new process for education was implemented.<br />
Patients are scheduled for pre chemotherapy education 2 days prior to treatment for an allocated time frame of 1 hour with<br />
a nurse. An education room has been established in the unit for privacy. Patients are given a “Looking after Yourself during<br />
Chemotherapy” DVD prior to their education session along with a questionnaire to be completed raising any concerns or<br />
fears they may have.<br />
A patient satisfaction survey was conducted in November 2012, highlighting that patients were 100% satisfied with the<br />
education process and they felt the content of information given was very helpful.<br />
Conclusion:<br />
Nursing staff reported a significant change in patient anxiety levels on the day of treatment when education had been<br />
conducted 2 days prior. Staff expressed that the extended time frame allowed them to deliver a more comprehensive<br />
education to the patient and they did not feel under pressure, or rushed.<br />
Improving the education process has provided patients with confidence, better understanding and reduced anxiety levels for<br />
their first treatment.<br />
28<br />
<strong>Research</strong> <strong>Week</strong> <strong>Abstract</strong> <strong>Book</strong> <strong>Northern</strong> <strong>Health</strong> 2013