The assessment and management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity among adult patients receiving chemotherapy in a tertiary hospital: a best practice implementation project

Abstract

Background Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a significant problem for patients receiving chemotherapy. Due to the lack of evidence for effective management of neurotoxicity, regular assessment of neurological function is recommended for patients receiving chemotherapy. Objectives The aim of this project was to integrate the available evidence of assessment and management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy into practice, and implement strategies to improve compliance with acceptable practice. Methods The project implemented a pre- and post implementation audit using the Joanna Briggs Institute Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System (PACES) and Getting Research into Practice (GRIP) programs. Four audit criteria were established according to the available best evidence on the assessment and management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. The program was divided into three phases and conducted over six months in the Chemotherapy Ward, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center. Results Sixty patients and 14 oncology nurses were involved in this project. The results in the follow-up audit cycle showed that the compliance rates for patient education and action plans were 87% and 90% respectively. The rates regarding validated tool use and specialist consultation both achieved an improvement of 100%. Conclusion The project demonstrated positive outcomes from the pre- and post best practice audits as methods of utilizing evidence in practice. The practice of assessing and management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy significantly improved. The next step is to develop strategies in sustaining the new procedures of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy assessment.