79 Chemobrain – a qualitative study of women experiencing cognitive side effects after chemotherapy

Abstract

across Ireland to support this cohort of patients; a working group was formed to address this deficit. Method: The working group identified available resources. The oncology multidisciplinary team and the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Centre were invited to be involved. We conducted a literature review and liaised with colleagues who participated in other hospital based support groups. It was agreed that the structure of a single support day to be held off site. Patients with a primary cancer who had completed their treatments were invited to attend along with their main support/partner. The aim and structure of the day was designed to be patient focused. It opened with a psychologist’s presentation, followed by a choice of workshops: Diet and Cancer, Exercise and Cancer, Fatigue, Complimentary therapies, Emotional effects of cancer. The final part of the day focused on Life after Therapy. Each participant was asked to complete an evaluation form for each section of the program. Results: All talks and workshops were individually evaluated. Feedback from the day was very positive and all talks and workshops scored very high. Each section scored an average of 4.5/5 indicating a high level of appropriateness and satisfaction across the various workshops. Conclusion: The evaluation highlighted patients’ need for support on completion of cancer treatment. This support day helped to empower our patients to adapt to life after cancer. Participants found that acknowledgement and sharing of the difficulties they faced to be extremely helpful. This day was made possible by the support of the ‘Ross Nugent Foundation’ and the Irish Cancer Society. No conflict of interest.