Introduction: Oncology patients require accurate and reliable information to adequately perform self-care and cope with the side effects of cancer treatment. Oncology nurses have long recognized the need for evidence-based patient education in optimizing care. In order to influence positive patient outcomes, nurses must work collectively and collaborate with other disciplines.
Purpose of Poster Presentation: The poster presentation will illustrate how a patient education research project was designed and conducted as a result of a mentoring relationship between a staff nurse and a clinical educator, support from the management team, and collaboration between nursing and patient education. By working together through diverse partnerships, the research project was a success.
Background to the Project: The research used the format of a survey questionnaire. Experts in patient education were consulted during the designing stage of the survey. The study assessed the information needs of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and explored their preferred styles of receiving education in an ambulatory-care setting. The final sample consisted of 101 patients undergoing outpatient chemotherapy. The most commonly identified information needs were side effects of treatment, drug information, and coping strategies. Patients preferred one-on-one discussion with their health care providers. Some patients expressed a preference for written information in their primary languages, while others supported the use of online learning. The results of this study should help to guide patient education initiatives in oncology nursing.
Outcomes of the Project: The research project has strengthened the working relationships between nurses and other health-care professionals. It has also stimulated an interest in clinical research among oncology nurses. By working together, a research project can help guide decision-making and foster evidence-based patient education in an ambulatory-care oncology setting. The research findings will be used in guiding future patient education initiatives within the institution.
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