Evaluation of a Nurse-led Aftercare Intervention for Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Treated With Radiotherapy and Cisplatin or Cetuximab

Overview

Journal Cancer Nurs

Specialties Nursing
Oncology

Date 2022 Jan 28

PMID 35089872

Authors

Cora Braat

Gerda M Verduijn

Heleen A van der Stege

Marinella P J Offerman

Marielle A C Peeters

AnneLoes Van Staa

Wendy H Oldenmenger

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: The supportive needs for head and neck cancer (HNC) patients during the vulnerable period after treatment are not always met. Therefore, more professional support regarding physical, social, and psychological care as well as lifestyle is recommended.

Objective: This study is an evaluation of a nurse-led aftercare intervention to support patients recovering from HNC treatment.

Methods: Intervention group (IG) participants received 2 extra consultations from a nurse practitioner 3 and 9 months after treatment of HNC. A holistic conversational tool, the Self-Management Web, was developed to guide the nurse through the conversation. Primary outcomes were health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and quality of patient-centered care. A secondary outcome was self-management skills.

Results: Twenty-seven patients were included in the IG, and 28 were included in the control group. Differences in HRQoL and self-management between the IG and the control group were not statistically significant. For the IG, all domains of the Self-Management Web were perceived important and addressed by the nurse practitioner.

Conclusion: This holistic nurse-led aftercare intervention was highly appreciated by HNC patients. Although the intervention met the need for support in recovery after treatment, it did not improve HRQoL or self-management skills.

Implications Of Practice: For both nurses and patients, the intervention is feasible and acceptable in daily practice. Self-management support for patients after their cancer treatment is of added value and has potential to improve the quality of regular follow-up care.

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