Implementing a Chemotherapy Education Intervention in Adult Oncology Patients

Abstract

Millions of adult oncology patients receiving chemotherapy or immunotherapy present to the emergency department annually due to toxicities. Patients receive education regarding their regimen, expected toxicities, and supportive measures prior to initiating therapy; however, this is often accomplished in one session, and patients sometimes present for the first infusion with a knowledge deficit. This can lead to increased acute care services utilization, increased anxiety, poorer outcomes, and increased costs. The purpose of this project was to improve patient and caregiver knowledge regarding the chemotherapy regimen, associated toxicities, self-care strategies, and indications to seek assistance. To accomplish this, the infusion advanced practice provider team provided brief, targeted education to all patients presenting to the infusion center for their first infusion of a new regimen. Patients were asked to complete a survey regarding the intervention. 462 patients across all tumor types participated in the intervention. Patients were very interested in the intervention, with 93% of patients participating in the intervention. Patients found the intervention to be very helpful, with all post-intervention surveys demonstrating improved understanding. The average length of the intervention was 12.4 minutes, and the cost of the average intervention was $10.98.