Patient-reported perceptions of care after the introduction of a new advanced cancer nursing role in Sweden

Abstract

Extensive research results show quality improvements associated with advanced cancer nursing roles. Despite this, these roles are not implemented in many countries. The aim of this cross-sectional, populationbased study was to compare patients' perception of care, before and after the introduction of a new advanced nursing role, the coordination contact nurse (CCN), in a region in Sweden. Method: All patients (with gynaecological, haematological, Head & Neck, upper gastrointestinal cancers) diagnosed in the region the year prior and one-year post introducing the new CCN role were identified from the Swedish Cancer Register. Data were collected using the European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer [EORTC] Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30 and QLQ-INFO25) and a study specific questionnaire. Result: The results, based on baseline (n = 869) and follow-up data (n = 1003), show statistically significant patient-reported improvements after the introduction of the CCN role, regarding health-related patient information (EORTC QLQ-INFO25 global mean score increased from 41.23 to 44.16, p = 0.0006). We found statistically significant improvements related to availability of supportive care resources, e.g. increased reported access to contact nurse (from 53% to 66%, p ≤ 0.0001) and individual written care plans (from 40% to 54%, p < 0.0001). We also found some improvements related to patient involvement and care coordination, but also room for further developments. Conclusion: The implementation of the new advanced cancer nursing role may have contributed to important improvements, but it has also identified areas in need of development. Further research with long-term evaluations of CCN roles in other contexts, are both needed and ongoing .

Factors associated with healthcare utilisation during first year after cancer diagnose—a population‐based study

“…In two previously conducted population‐based survey's, patients diagnosed with haematological‐, gynaecological‐, upper gastro intestinal (upper GI)—and Head & Neck (H&N), in the years of 2014 and 2016, were included (Sharp et al, 2018; Ullgren et al, 2017; Westman et al, 2019). Those patients were identified via cancer site‐specific quality registries (Emilsson et al, 2015; Lofgren et al, 2019; Tingstedt et al, 2019).…”

“…Recent surveys from the region, revealed that the integration between SPHC and acute cancer care were inadequate (Ullgren et al, 2017; Westman et al, 2019). In summary, cancer care often includes several healthcare providers and if needed, non‐medical social support may also be provided (organised by the municipality).…”

Health care utilization at end of life among patients with lung or pancreatic cancer. Comparison between two Swedish cohorts

“…Further, one way of measuring both the performance of the health care system and the level of integration between them are different aspects of unplanned care [51]. In addition, the results from a recent survey in the region indicates poor integration between acute cancer care and palliative care [52]. Even if the reasons for more frequent referral to SPC might be to strengthen support and symptom management during cancer treatment.…”

Effect of Nursing Intervention on Mental Health and Clinical Effect of Patients with Gastrointestinal Cancer

“…For similar reports, suitable nursing intervention significant improved anxiety, depression and some negative emotions on gastrointestinal cancer patient [14][15][16]. Comprehensive nursing intervention is on the basis of conventional nursing care including psychology, behavior and family intervention measures, such as the personal nursing model.…”