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14 pages, 635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Cancer Patient Navigation: Lessons from an Evaluation of Navigation Services in Alberta, Canada

by Linda Watson, Se’era May Anstruther, Claire Link, Siwei Qi, Kathryn Burrows, Michelle Lack, Krista Rawson and Andrea DeIure

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(5), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32050287 - 21 May 2025

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Abstract

Cancer patient navigation has emerged as a patient-centric intervention enabling equitable cancer care, by mitigating barriers patients encounter throughout their cancer journey. Cancer Care Alberta (CCA) implemented a professional navigation model over a decade ago and commissioned a program evaluation in response to [...] Read more.

Cancer patient navigation has emerged as a patient-centric intervention enabling equitable cancer care, by mitigating barriers patients encounter throughout their cancer journey. Cancer Care Alberta (CCA) implemented a professional navigation model over a decade ago and commissioned a program evaluation in response to evolving operational demands. The objectives were (1) to better understand the current state of CCA’s cancer patient navigation program; (2) to explore the need for other specialized streams; and (3) to provide key recommendations to strengthen and grow the program. A mixed methods approach, including a survey, administrative data, and semi-structured interviews, captured patient-, staff-, and system-level insights. Findings revealed difficulties in identifying complex patients needing navigation, along with inconsistencies regarding intake practices, program awareness, referral pathways, standardized workflows, and a lack of programmatic supports, which contributed to variability in service delivery. A need for enhanced palliative navigation support also emerged. Approximately 25% of surveyed patients reported being unable to access perceived needed support before their first oncology consultation. These findings underscore the importance of early, targeted navigation for equity-deserving populations. Recommendations include harmonizing program structure, refining navigator roles, expanding navigation streams, standardizing processes, and enhancing equity-focused competencies. These findings offer a roadmap with which to improve person-centered cancer care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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13 pages, 1043 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing the Cancer Care Journey for Indigenous Patients: A Guide for Oncology Nurses

by Jennifer M. Shea, Tina Buckle, Sylvia Doody and Kathy Michelin

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(5), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32050279 - 15 May 2025

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Abstract

Background: Indigenous peoples nationally have seen a drastic increase in cancer diagnoses, often at later stages and with poorer survival rates than non-Indigenous Canadians. Colonization, assimilation policies, and racism within our healthcare system are contributors to these inequities. Methods: As a team, we [...] Read more.

Background: Indigenous peoples nationally have seen a drastic increase in cancer diagnoses, often at later stages and with poorer survival rates than non-Indigenous Canadians. Colonization, assimilation policies, and racism within our healthcare system are contributors to these inequities. Methods: As a team, we have worked for over a decade to improve the cancer care journey of Indigenous patients in Labrador. We share learnings from a qualitative community-based project with Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit land claim agreement through sharing suggested improvements from participants to improve the cancer care journey. Objective: Acknowledging the diversity of Indigenous groups, we discuss suggestions as a guide and expand the discussion to provide interconnected suggestions for oncology nurses on enhancing care for their Indigenous patients. Conclusions: Oncology nurses play a crucial role in enhancing the cancer care journey for Indigenous peoples, necessitating a commitment to culturally safe environments, ongoing professional development, and advocacy for systemic changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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20 pages, 2493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The PREPARE Study: Acceptability and Feasibility of a Telehealth Trimodal Prehabilitation Program for Women with Endometrial Neoplasia

by Elise P. Legault, Paula A. B. Ribeiro, Danielle Moreau-Amaru, Emmanuelle Robert, Sara Forte, Alain S. Comtois, Vanessa Samouëlian and François Tournoux

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010055 - 20 Jan 2025

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Abstract

Patients with endometrial neoplasia (EN) often have multiple comorbidities and a higher surgical risk. Prehabilitation programs (PPs) combine various interventions to improve preoperative conditions and reduce impairment due to surgical stress. We conducted a pragmatic pilot study to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility [...] Read more.

Patients with endometrial neoplasia (EN) often have multiple comorbidities and a higher surgical risk. Prehabilitation programs (PPs) combine various interventions to improve preoperative conditions and reduce impairment due to surgical stress. We conducted a pragmatic pilot study to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a trimodal telehealth PP (exercise, nutrition, and psychological support) for EN patients. The participants could select their exercise group: (1) a supervised PP (SPP), group sessions 3×/week; (2) a semi-supervised PP (SSPP), group session 1×/week, training alone 2×/week; or (3) a physical activity counseling session (PACS). Out of the 150 EN patients awaiting surgery screened during the 18 months of the study recruitment, 66% (99/150) were eligible, and 40% consented to participate (SPP, n = 13; SSPP, n = 17; PACS, n = 9). The overall dropout was low (13%; 5/39), with no significant differences across groups. No serious adverse events occurred. We observed a positive impact on different outcomes across the different groups, such as in the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy quality of life score (SPP; delta = 6.1 [CI: 0.9; 12.6]) and functional capacity measured using the 30″ sit-to-stand test (PACS delta = 2.4 [CI: 1.2; 3.6]). The same-day hospital leave was high in the SSPP group (54.5%). Our pilot telehealth PP seems to be safe, feasible, and well accepted and may procure clinical and patient-centered gains that need to be confirmed in a larger trial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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13 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perspectives of Women with Breast Cancer and Healthcare Providers Participating in an Adherence-Enhancing Program for Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy: A Qualitative Study

by Véronique Turcotte, Laurence Guillaumie, Martine Lemay, Anne Dionne, Julie Lemieux, Angéline Labbé, Carolyn Gotay, Line Guénette and Sophie Lauzier

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010045 - 17 Jan 2025

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Abstract

Background: Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is prescribed for 5–10 years to women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer to prevent recurrence. However, a significant proportion of women do not adhere to AET. We developed SOIE, a one-year program designed to enhance the AET experience and [...] Read more.

Background: Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) is prescribed for 5–10 years to women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer to prevent recurrence. However, a significant proportion of women do not adhere to AET. We developed SOIE, a one-year program designed to enhance the AET experience and adherence. SOIE was pilot-tested in a mixed-methods randomized controlled trial. This report presents the experience of women and healthcare providers (HCPs) with SOIE. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis was conducted with 20 women and 7 HCPs who participated in the program. Results: Most women and HCPs reported high satisfaction with the program. Women felt it addressed their need for information and strategies to manage side effects. They felt supported and developed a more positive attitude toward AET, which contributed to their intention to pursue AET. They perceived that the program helped them navigate the AET experience and reduced their stress or fear regarding AET. HCPs corroborated these benefits. Conclusions: Findings suggest that SOIE can enhance the experience and motivation to pursue the AET treatment by meeting important needs for information, side-effects management, and psycho-emotional support. Programs like SOIE can have benefits beyond adherence by improving patients’ well-being during this crucial long-term treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

11 pages, 191 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Engaging Nurses in Effective Cost of Care Conversations to Address Cancer-Related Financial Toxicity: Results from an Exploratory Survey

by Jean S. Edward, Amanda Thaxton Wiggins, Louis G. Baser, Haafsah Fariduddin, Joanna F. Doran, Monica F. Bryant, John A. D’Orazio and Kimberly D. Northrip

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010033 - 8 Jan 2025

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Abstract

Few evidence-based trainings exist on how to equip healthcare providers, particularly nurses, with the skills to engage in cost of care conversations with patients/caregivers to mitigate the impact of cancer-related financial toxicity. This study evaluated a pilot training developed in collaboration with Triage [...] Read more.

Few evidence-based trainings exist on how to equip healthcare providers, particularly nurses, with the skills to engage in cost of care conversations with patients/caregivers to mitigate the impact of cancer-related financial toxicity. This study evaluated a pilot training developed in collaboration with Triage Cancer^® to prepare oncology nurses to identify and assist patients/caregivers facing financial and/or legal barriers to care. Ten pediatric oncology nurses completed the training and pre/post-surveys on behaviors related to financial and legal need screening, frequency and comfort level of answering questions, knowledge, and behavior changes, along with training evaluation questions. At baseline, six nurses reported never screening for financial needs and nine for legal needs. Following the training, seven nurses stated they were likely to screen for financial/legal needs. At six months post-training, nurses had referred 85 patients/caregivers to financial/legal navigation services. Comfort levels in answering financial/legal questions increased by 6.5 points and knowledge scores increased by 1.7 points post-training. Most nurses recommended this training to other healthcare providers who work with patients with cancer and their caregivers. This study highlights the importance of providing oncology nurses with resources to engage in cost of care conversations and oncology financial legal navigation programs to mitigate the impact of cancer-related financial toxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

12 pages, 890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Enhanced Healthcare: Integrating ChatGPT-4 in ePROs for Improved Oncology Care and Decision-Making: A Pilot Evaluation

by Chihying Liao, Chinnan Chu, Mingyu Lien, Yaochung Wu and Tihao Wang

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010007 - 26 Dec 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2933

Abstract

Background: Since 2023, ChatGPT-4 has been impactful across several sectors including healthcare, where it aids in medical information analysis and education. Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) play a crucial role in monitoring cancer patients’ post-treatment symptoms, enabling early interventions. However, managing the voluminous ePRO [...] Read more.

Background: Since 2023, ChatGPT-4 has been impactful across several sectors including healthcare, where it aids in medical information analysis and education. Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) play a crucial role in monitoring cancer patients’ post-treatment symptoms, enabling early interventions. However, managing the voluminous ePRO data presents significant challenges. This study assesses the feasibility of utilizing ChatGPT-4 for analyzing side effect data from ePROs. Methods: Thirty cancer patients were consecutively collected via a web-based ePRO platform, reporting side effects over 4 weeks. ChatGPT-4, simulating oncologists, dietitians, and nurses, analyzed this data and offered improvement suggestions, which were then reviewed by professionals in those fields. Results: Two oncologists, two dieticians, and two nurses evaluated the AI’s performance across roles with 540 reviews. ChatGPT-4 excelled in data accuracy and completeness and was noted for its empathy and support, enhancing communication and reducing caregiver stress. It was potentially effective as a dietician. Discussion: This study offers preliminary insights into the feasibility of integrating AI tools like ChatGPT-4 into ePRO cancer care, highlighting its potential to reduce healthcare provider workload. Key directions for future research include enhancing AI’s capabilities in cancer care knowledge validation, emotional support, improving doctor-patient communication, increasing patient health literacy, and minimizing errors in AI-driven clinical processes. As technology advances, AI holds promise for playing a more significant role in ePRO cancer care and supporting shared decision-making between clinicians and patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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18 pages, 291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Barriers to Cancer Screening and Early Detection in Older Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Approach to Oncology Nursing Practice Implications

by Abdulaziz M. Alodhialah, Ashwaq A. Almutairi and Mohammed Almutairi

Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(12), 7872-7889; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31120580 - 8 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1095

Abstract

Background: Access to cancer screening services is crucial for early detection and improved survival rates, yet older adults in Saudi Arabia face significant barriers. Recent data from the Saudi Health Ministry indicate that cancer incidence in this demographic is rising, underscoring the urgent [...] Read more.

Background: Access to cancer screening services is crucial for early detection and improved survival rates, yet older adults in Saudi Arabia face significant barriers. Recent data from the Saudi Health Ministry indicate that cancer incidence in this demographic is rising, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced screening efforts. This study explores the factors influencing cancer screening behaviors among older adults in Riyadh, using a mixed-methods approach to identify and address these barriers effectively. Methods: The study integrated quantitative data from 100 participants aged 60 and above who attended King Saud University-affiliated healthcare centers, and qualitative insights from 20 semi-structured interviews. The Barriers to Cancer Screening Scale (BCSS) quantitatively assessed barriers, while the thematic analysis of interview data helped identify key themes. Results: Findings revealed significant barriers, categorized into three primary themes: accessibility challenges, psychological barriers, and social influences. These include logistical difficulties related to transportation and service availability, fears and anxieties regarding cancer diagnoses, and a lack of family support and cultural stigma, all of which impact participants’ willingness to engage in screening. Conclusion: The study underscores the multifaceted barriers faced by older adults in accessing cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. Tailored interventions that address logistical, psychological, and social factors are essential to enhance screening uptake and ensure equitable access to preventive services. These findings contribute to the ongoing discussions on public health strategies and underscore the necessity for community and healthcare provider engagement to improve cancer screening rates in this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

14 pages, 680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bouncing Beyond Adversity in Oncology: An Exploratory Study of the Association Between Professional Team Resilience at Work and Work-Related Sense of Coherence

by Dominique Tremblay, Djamal Berbiche, Mathieu Roy, Catherine Prady, Marie-José Durand, Marjolaine Landry and Sylvie Lessard

Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(11), 7287-7300; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31110537 - 17 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1313

Abstract

Team resilience at work (TR@W) is an important resource for bouncing beyond adverse situations. Adopting a health-promoting salutogenic approach, this cross-sectional study explores whether oncology team resilience, which is significantly associated with work-related sense of coherence (Work-SoC), and examines the roles of team [...] Read more.

Team resilience at work (TR@W) is an important resource for bouncing beyond adverse situations. Adopting a health-promoting salutogenic approach, this cross-sectional study explores whether oncology team resilience, which is significantly associated with work-related sense of coherence (Work-SoC), and examines the roles of team member characteristics, quality of work life, and perceived impact of COVID-19. Team members (n = 189) from four oncology settings in Québec (Canada) completed self-administered e-questionnaires. Structural equation modeling was used to identify the best-fitting model and significant relationships among study variables. The results showed a significant positive reciprocal relationship between TR@W and Work-SoC (R = 0.20) and between Work-SoC and TR@W (R = 0.39). These two variables were influenced by gender, gender roles, age, or COVID-19. The resulting model confirms our initial assumption that a higher level of TR@W is significantly associated with a more positive Work-SoC. Our findings provide new insights into subscale items perceived positively by oncology team members, such as perseverance, connectedness, and capability; and identify areas, such as self-care, within the team that may require greater attention to bounce beyond adversity. They also suggest there may be different levels (individual, team, and organizational) of resources under the health salutogenic umbrella. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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18 pages, 2576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Oncology Nurse Navigation on Mental Health in Patients with Cancer in Taiwan: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

by Wei-Zhen Yu, Hsin-Fang Wang, Yen-Kuang Lin, Yen-Lin Liu, Yun Yen, Jacqueline Whang-Peng, Tsai-Wei Huang and Hsiu-Ju Chang

Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(7), 4105-4122; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31070306 - 20 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2351

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the prevalence of mental health problems among patients with cancer and whether oncology nurse navigation improved their mental health outcomes and medical experience. In this randomized controlled clinical trial, we recruited 128 outpatients with cancer via purposive sampling [...] Read more.

In this study, we investigated the prevalence of mental health problems among patients with cancer and whether oncology nurse navigation improved their mental health outcomes and medical experience. In this randomized controlled clinical trial, we recruited 128 outpatients with cancer via purposive sampling from a teaching hospital in northern Taiwan. Participants were randomly assigned to the navigation group (N = 61) or the usual care group (N = 67). Data were collected from January 2019 to July 2020 using questionnaires, including the self-reported Distress Thermometer, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Demoralization Scale, and Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care. Data were collected at baseline and after three and six months of the intervention. Descriptive and analytical statistical analyses were performed. The prevalence rates of anxiety, depression, distress, and demoralization were 17.9%, 15.7%, 29.7%, and 29.7%, respectively. After three months, the participants in the navigation group exhibited significantly reduced levels of anxiety, demoralization, and emotional distress (reduced by 92%, 75%, and 58%, respectively) and reported a better medical experience (odds ratio = 1.40) than those in the usual care group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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11 pages, 199 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

Current and Future Directions Using Virtual Avenues for Care Delivery Across the Cancer Continuum

by Charlotte T. Lee, Franco Ng and Elizabeth Borycki

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(5), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32050249 - 24 Apr 2025

Viewed by 299

Abstract

Oncology nurses have long been at the forefront of virtual care, transitioning from telenursing to technology-driven delivery methods that address the evolving needs of cancer patients. Initially developed to overcome barriers to care for rural and underserved populations, virtual care has grown into [...] Read more.

Oncology nurses have long been at the forefront of virtual care, transitioning from telenursing to technology-driven delivery methods that address the evolving needs of cancer patients. Initially developed to overcome barriers to care for rural and underserved populations, virtual care has grown into a critical component of oncology practice. Oncology nurses play a central role in providing timely, personalized, and holistic care, leveraging tools such as remote monitoring, patient-reported outcomes, and mHealth platforms. However, the rapid adoption of virtual care demands a broader focus to sustain its impact. This commentary explores the need to clearly define the role of oncology nurses in virtual care, emphasizing leadership in digital health, the integration of hybrid care models, and workforce training. By addressing these priorities, virtual care can continue to enhance patient outcomes, strengthen nursing-led interventions, and expand the scope of oncology nursing, positioning it as an essential and enduring facet of cancer care delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

9 pages, 215 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Toward an Understanding of Cancer as an Issue of Social Justice: Perspectives and Implications for Oncology Nursing

by Tara C. Horrill, Scott M. Beck and Allison Wiens

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(2), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32020104 - 12 Feb 2025

Viewed by 917

Abstract

Within the fields of oncology practice and research, cancer has historically been and continues to be understood as primarily biologically produced and physiologically driven. This understanding is rooted in biomedicine, the dominant model of health and illness in the Western world. Yet, there [...] Read more.

Within the fields of oncology practice and research, cancer has historically been and continues to be understood as primarily biologically produced and physiologically driven. This understanding is rooted in biomedicine, the dominant model of health and illness in the Western world. Yet, there is increasing evidence of inequities in cancer that are influenced by social and structural inequities. In this article, we propose that cancer-related inequities ought to be seen as issues of social justice, and, given nursing’s longstanding commitments to social justice, they ought to be a priority for oncology nurses. Using a social justice lens, we highlight potential social injustices in the form of inequities in cancer outcomes and access to cancer care across the cancer continuum. Our intention is not to provide an exhaustive review of evidence, but to provide our perspective, adding to the dialogue surrounding health equity and cancer while shifting the narrative away from an understanding of cancer inequities as stemming from “lifestyle” and “behavioural” choices. We conclude by exploring the implications of considering cancer inequities as social injustices for nursing practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

14 pages, 577 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

Building a Genomics-Informed Nursing Workforce: Recommendations for Oncology Nursing Practice and Beyond

by Jacqueline Limoges, Rebecca Puddester, Andrea Gretchev, Patrick Chiu, Kathy Calzone, Kathleen Leslie, April Pike and Nicole Letourneau

Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32010014 - 27 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1427

Abstract

Background: Genomics is a foundational element of precision health and can be used to identify inherited cancers, cancer related risks, therapeutic decisions, and to address health disparities. However, there are structural barriers across the cancer care continuum, including an underprepared nursing workforce, long [...] Read more.

Background: Genomics is a foundational element of precision health and can be used to identify inherited cancers, cancer related risks, therapeutic decisions, and to address health disparities. However, there are structural barriers across the cancer care continuum, including an underprepared nursing workforce, long wait times for service, and inadequate policy infrastructure that limit equitable access to the benefits of genomic discoveries. These barriers have persisted for decades, yet they are modifiable. Two distinct waves of efforts to integrate genomics into nursing practice are analyzed. Drawing on research and observations during these waves, this discussion paper explores additional approaches to accelerate workforce development and health system transformation. Results: Three recommendations for a third wave of efforts to integrate genomics are explored. (1) Collaborate across the domains of nursing practice, professions, and sectors to reset priorities in response to emerging evidence, (2) Education in leadership, policy and practice for rapid scale-up of workforce and health system transformation, and (3) Create a research framework that generates evidence to guide nursing practice. Conclusions: Preparing nurses to lead and practice at the forefront of innovation requires concerted efforts by nurses in all five domains of practice and can optimize health outcomes. Leveraging nursing as a global profession with new strategies can advance genomics-informed nursing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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14 pages, 549 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Features of the Nurse-Patient Relationship: Insights from a Qualitative Review Using Artificial Intelligence Interpretation

by Elsa Vitale, Luana Conte, Roberto Lupo, Stefano Botti, Annarita Fanizzi, Raffaella Massafra and Giorgio De Nunzio

Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(12), 7697-7710; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31120567 - 2 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1803

Abstract

Introduction: This qualitative literature review explored the intersection of art, creativity, and the nurse–patient relationship in the context of oncology nursing. It delved into the perceptions and reflections of nurses as captured by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) analysis from two specialized nursing databases. [...] Read more.

Introduction: This qualitative literature review explored the intersection of art, creativity, and the nurse–patient relationship in the context of oncology nursing. It delved into the perceptions and reflections of nurses as captured by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) analysis from two specialized nursing databases. Methods: The protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF) Platform. A comprehensive search was conducted in CINAHL, the British Nursing Database, and the Nursing & Allied Health Database, using keywords related to art, cancer, creativity, nursing, and relationships. The extracted qualitative research studies were then analyzed using GAI to identify key themes and insights. Results: The analysis revealed profound considerations regarding the role of nurses in oncology and palliative patient care. Nurses acknowledged the spiritual dimension through religious and spiritual practices, while emphasizing authentic presence and empathic communication. They actively addressed patient concerns, adapted to challenges, and engaged in continuous professional development. The insights from the GAI interpretation underscored the significance of empathy, creativity, and artistry in nurturing meaningful nurse–patient connections. Conclusions: The GAI-enabled exploration provided valuable insights into several dimensions of care, emphasizing the importance of spiritual sensitivity, empathic communication, and ongoing professional growth. As technology and human care converge, integrating artistry into the nurse–patient relationship could enhance patient experiences, improve outcomes, and enrich the oncology nursing practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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6 pages, 947 KiB

Open AccessProject Report

Leveraging Nursing Assessment for Early Identification of Post Operative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction (POGD) in Patients Undergoing Colorectal Surgery

by Tessy Siby, Alice Shajimon, Daniel Mullen, Shahnaz Gillani, Jeffrey R. Ong, Nikki E. Dinkins, Brittany Kruse, Carla Patel, Craig Messick, Nicole Gourmelon, Mary R. Butler and Vijaya Gottumukkala

Curr. Oncol. 2024, 31(7), 3752-3757; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol31070276 - 29 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1893

Abstract

Background: Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) remains a common morbidity after gastrointestinal surgery. POGD is associated with delayed hospital recovery, increased length of stay, poor patient satisfaction and experience, and increased economic hardship. The I-FEED scoring system was created by a group of experts [...] Read more.

Background: Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) remains a common morbidity after gastrointestinal surgery. POGD is associated with delayed hospital recovery, increased length of stay, poor patient satisfaction and experience, and increased economic hardship. The I-FEED scoring system was created by a group of experts to address the lack of a consistent objective definition of POGD. However, the I-FEED tool needs clinical validation before it can be adopted into clinical practice. The scope of this phase 1 Quality Improvement initiative involves the feasibility of implementing percussion into the nursing workflow without additional burden. Methods: All gastrointestinal/colorectal surgical unit registered nurses underwent comprehensive training in abdominal percussion. This involved understanding the technique, its application in postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction assessment, and its integration into the existing nursing documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR). After six months of education and practice, a six-question survey was sent to all inpatient GI surgical unit nurses about incorporating the percussion assessment into their routine workflow and documentation. Results: Responses were received from 91% of day-shift nurses and 76% of night-shift registered nurses. Overall, 95% of the nurses were confident in completing the abdominal percussion during their daily assessment. Conclusion: Nurses’ effective use of the I-FEED tool may help improve patient outcomes after surgery. The tool could also be an effective instrument for the early identification of postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) in surgical patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Reviews in Section "Oncology Nursing")

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