A prospective evaluation of the patients' knowledge about their chemotherapy treatment (CT) before the first course.

Abstract

6089 Background: The first CT cycle is usually associated with fear and hopelessness. This stress could impact the doctor-patient communication. With the aim of evaluating patient knowledge on the therapy and side effects before the administration of the first CT cycle, the Nurse Department of the Henry Moore Institute developed a survey, the results of which are listed in this paper. Methods: The survey was designed to evaluate four topics: Pt's general knowledge on their therapy (1 question); CT toxicity (7 questions); lifestyle during CT (3 questions) and supportive therapies (4 questions). All the answers were of a yes/no basis (adequate/inadequate). They were tabulated and each frequency distribution was analyzed. Results: Sixty-eight consecutive patients received the first CT cycle and completed the survey at IOHM between November 1, 2009 and November 30, 2009. Population characteristics: gender: female 35/68 (50.2%), age: mean 57 yo (range 20-79 yo), diagnosis: breast (25%), colon (20%), lung (8%), lymphoma (5%). Twenty-four patients responded affirmatively to all fifteen questions, 44 patients had one or more negative answers. In each of the topics, the following trend among negative answers were observed: general knowledge 3/68; toxicity: asthenia 1/68, alopecia 2/68, diarrhea 4/68, lab results 4/68, immunodeficiency 18/68; lifestyle: sun exposure 1/68, makeup and hair dye 19/68, sexuality 6/68; medical indications: diet 4/68, daily liquid requirements 4/68, support medication 5/68, analgesics 4/68. Conclusions: (a) In spite of the efforts taken to enhance communication between patients and doctors, 44/68 (65%) patients underwent their first chemotherapy cycle with inadequate knowledge on some practical aspects of CT (b) As a result of this work, two instruments to improve patient knowledge have been designed: a checklist to fill in by the doctor, and a short educational intervention from oncologic nurses after the first CT cycle to reinforce practical tips. The result of these interventions will be presented at the meeting. No significant financial relationships to disclose.