Investigating Physician-Directed Chemotherapy Handouts to Improve Patient Knowledge of Chemotherapy

• Published in: Blood 2015-12, Vol.126 (23), p.5575-5575
• Main Authors: Zacharia, George, Ameri, Ali M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0006-4971; 1528-0020
• DOI: 10.1182/blood.V126.23.5575.5575

Background: One of the basic goals of an oncologist is to educate patients as to the purpose of treatment and possible side effects of chemotherapy. Evidence suggests that patients who gain knowledge perform better self-care, cope better, and have better symptom control (Dodd, Res Nurs Health 1984; Williams et al, Oncol Nurs Forum 2004). However, we have found that in our clinic, patients frequently misunderstand the information presented to them regarding cancer treatment. This can lead to difficulties on both ends of the patient-physician spectrum. In our institution, it is standard policy for patients commencing chemotherapy as an outpatient to have a lengthy discussion with their oncologist regarding their diagnosis, type of chemotherapy, and side effects of chemotherapy 1-2 weeks before treatment. These patients then receive a handout in our outpatient infusion center from a nurse which contains the names of all the chemotherapeutic agents and possible side effects. The nurse also personally reviews the medications with the patients prior to administration. We have observed that despite receiving verbal and written education, cancer patients often cannot recall the names of the chemotherapeutic agents and side effects of treatment. We are investigating whether physician-directed handouts (PDH), in addition to education provided by nurses, prior to commencement of chemotherapy compared to our current practice could improve cancer drug education in our patients. Methods: We randomized 13 patients starting chemotherapy to receive either PDH or no PDH. The PDH included the name of the chemotherapy as well as 3-5 major and common side effects, which were highlighted. The handouts also contained the patient's chemotherapy cycle (i.e. how often they would be receiving chemotherapy). Patients then continued to receive handouts and education from the nurses at the outpatient infusion center as previously described. Four to six weeks after starting chemotherapy, patient took a multiple choice quiz which tested knowledge in three areas: names of the chemotherapeutic drugs or regimen they received, major side effects, and how often they were receiving chemotherapy. Eight to ten weeks after starting chemotherapy, patients again took the same quiz. Results: Of 13 patients randomized (6 to PDH and 7 to no PDH), 12 completed the study (5 PDH patients, 7 no PDH patients). Demographics: median age 63 years (20-89 years); 5 male; 8 female. At 4-6 weeks, patients in the