1393 A nursing assessment of rehabilitation needs following treatment for cancer

Abstract

Rehabilitation needs in individuals with cancer have long been a Cinderella area of care, despite the fact that cancer can cause physical changes, disruption of daily activities, psychological issues, communication and relationship problems and social concerns. This research study used both qualitative and quantitative methodology in a triangulation approach to explore the level of physical and psychosocial adjustment which patients undergo on completion of a radical course of anticancer therapy. Respondents were assessed using a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Thirty-four respondents participated in the study. The median age was 59 years (range 21–78). All the respondents had been treated with radiotherapy and 9 had received adjuvant chemotherapy. The four most frequently reported problems on the questionnaire were tiredness, lack of energy, pain and difficulty sleeping. At interview the most frequently reported problems were tiredness, pain, depressed mood and difficulty sleeping. There was little alteration in these symptoms over time. Of the two assessment methods, the questionnaire appeared to be the most sensitive in detecting particular problems, although important information was gathered from both sources. Rehabilitation has been defined as the restoration of the individual to the optimal level of ability within the needs and desires of the individual and his or her family and commensurate with the limitations imposed by the disease and its treatment. Despite excellent treatment this study has identified that patients have ongoing needs which can be easily assessed using a questionnaire approach. These needs will be reviewed and the importance of rehabilitation assessment emphasized.