Information needs of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy in an ambulatory-care setting.

The purpose of this study was to assess the information needs of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and to explore their preferred styles of receiving education in an ambulatory-care setting. Patient information needs and preferences were measured using a 17-item questionnaire. This descriptive study included a sample of 101 cancer patients undergoing outpatient chemotherapy. The most commonly expressed information needs concerned: side effects of treatment, drug information, and coping strategies. Some patients expressed a preference for information in their primary language. The results support the use of online learning in this setting. Patients identified one-on-one discussion with nurses and doctors as the preferred way to receive information. In order to meet the individual needs of cancer patients, education should be provided in a variety of learning modalities. The results of this study should help to guide patient education initiatives in oncology ambulatory care.