Susan Williamson1, Karen Chalmers2, Kinta Beaver3. 1. School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, Brook Building, Preston, PR1 2HE, UK. Electronic address: Swilliamson2@uclan.ac.uk. 2. School of Nursing, Midwifery & Social Work, University of Manchester, Jean McFarlane Building, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK. Electronic address: Karen.chalmers@manchester.ac.uk. 3. School of Health, University of Central Lancashire, Brook Building, Preston, PR1 2HE, UK. Electronic address: kbeaver@uclan.ac.uk.
Abstract
PURPOSE: Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide, although mortality rates across most of Europe have decreased in recent years. Historically, patients are asked to return to hospital outpatient clinics following treatment to monitor for disease progression. However, new approaches are being called for that focus on meeting the information and support needs of patients. Telephone follow-up (TFU) by specialist nurses is an alternative approach; this study aimed to explore patient views of TFU. METHODS: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 26 colorectal cancer patients who had received TFU. One interview was also conducted with the specialist nurse who had used a structured intervention to provide TFU. Data were analysed using content analysis. RESULTS: All patients found TFU to be a positive experience and all stated a preference for continuing with TFU. Three main themes emerged from the patient interviews; 1) accessible and convenient care, 2) personalised care, and 3) relationship with the specialist nurse. The themes from the specialist nurse interview were 1) knowing the patient, 2) the benefits of TFU and 3) the challenges of TFU. CONCLUSIONS: TFU was well received by patients; it was perceived as highly convenient and had distinct advantages over hospital follow-up. Continuity of care was an important factor in building a trusting relationship between patient and nurse. Training in the use of the intervention is recommended and it may be useful for specialist nurses to initially meet eligible patients face to face to establish rapport before implementing TFU.
PURPOSE: Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide, although mortality rates across most of Europe have decreased in recent years. Historically, patients are asked to return to hospital outpatient clinics following treatment to monitor for disease progression. However, new approaches are being called for that focus on meeting the information and support needs of patients. Telephone follow-up (TFU) by specialist nurses is an alternative approach; this study aimed to explore patient views of TFU. METHODS: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 26 colorectal cancer patients who had received TFU. One interview was also conducted with the specialist nurse who had used a structured intervention to provide TFU. Data were analysed using content analysis. RESULTS: All patients found TFU to be a positive experience and all stated a preference for continuing with TFU. Three main themes emerged from the patient interviews; 1) accessible and convenient care, 2) personalised care, and 3) relationship with the specialist nurse. The themes from the specialist nurse interview were 1) knowing the patient, 2) the benefits of TFU and 3) the challenges of TFU. CONCLUSIONS: TFU was well received by patients; it was perceived as highly convenient and had distinct advantages over hospital follow-up. Continuity of care was an important factor in building a trusting relationship between patient and nurse. Training in the use of the intervention is recommended and it may be useful for specialist nurses to initially meet eligible patients face to face to establish rapport before implementing TFU.
Authors: L Batehup; K Porter; H Gage; P Williams; P Simmonds; E Lowson; L Dodson; N J Davies; R Wagland; J D Winter; A Richardson; A Turner; J L Corner Journal: Support Care Cancer Date: 2017-02-14 Impact factor: 3.603
Authors: Anna Cox; Grace Lucas; Afrodita Marcu; Marianne Piano; Wendy Grosvenor; Freda Mold; Roma Maguire; Emma Ream Journal: J Med Internet Res Date: 2017-01-09 Impact factor: 5.428
Authors: Susan Williamson; Thomas F Hack; Munirah Bangee; Valerio Benedetto; Kinta Beaver Journal: Support Care Cancer Date: 2020-06-04 Impact factor: 3.603