A comparison of self-reported satisfaction between adolescents treated in a "teenage" unit with those treated in adult or paediatric units.

BACKGROUND: Despite recommendations that adolescents should have in-patient management amongst their peers, there is little literature to support this. The study aim was to evaluate and contrast patient satisfaction for teenage cancer patients treated in two settings. The first is a split site unit (a paediatric ward and adult cancer centre in different locations within one city) and the second, a dedicated adolescent unit for patients aged 13-20. PROCEDURE: Eligible patients aged 13-20 years received treatment from September 1997 to June 2000 and totalled sixty-five adolescents. The patients were identified at both centres from departmental databases. Postal questionnaires (the Youth Satisfaction Questionnaire) were sent to those eligible.
RESULTS: Patients receiving treatment in the teenage cancer unit (TCU) were not significantly more satisfied overall than those receiving treatment in adult or paediatric units. However, significant differences were noted in: recreational and relaxation facilities (P < 0.005, P < 0.0002), studying space (P < 0.004), ward noise (P < 0.02), and company of the same age (P < 0.0001). The Grade Point Average (a score of all specific items) was higher in favour of the TCU (P < 0.03). Patients at both centres were dissatisfied with hospital food and menus offered.
CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents with cancer are satisfied with the overall care they receive independent of whether it is a TCU or a split site unit. Teenagers are significantly more satisfied with environmental aspects of care in the TCU. More research is required to establish the correct provision for teenagers with cancer. This is the first study that contrasts satisfaction between different centres and thus adding to an understanding of the needs of teenagers with cancer. (c) 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.