Perceived Provision of Perioperative Information and Care by Patients Who Have Undergone Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Active patient participation in preparation and recovery from colorectal cancer surgery can be facilitated by timely information and care and may improve patient wellbeing and reduce hospitalizations; Methods: We aimed to identify gaps in perioperative information and care by asking colorectal cancer surgical patients to retrospectively report on their perceptions of care via a cross-sectional survey; Results: Overall, 179 (64% consent rate) patients completed one of two 64-item surveys exploring their views of ‘optimal care’ or their experiences of ‘actual care’. In total, 41 (64%) aspects of care were endorsed as optimal. Of these, almost three-quarters (73%) were received by most patients (80% or more). Gaps in care were identified from discrepancies in the endorsement of optimal versus actual survey items. Of the 41 items identified as representing ‘optimal care’, 11 items were received by fewer than 80% of patients, including the provision of information about the impact of surgical wait-times on cancer cure (69%); pre-habilitation behaviors to improve health (75%); the type of questions to ask the health care team (74%); impact of pain medications on bowel movements (73%); how to obtain medical supplies for self-care at home (67%); dietary or exercise advice after discharge (25–31%); and emotional advice after discharge (44%). Conclusions: These gaps represent patient-centered priorities and targets for supportive interventions.

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a digital health intervention to support patients with colorectal cancer prepare for and recover from surgery: study protocol of the RecoverEsupport randomised controlled trial

“…Intervention development was based on findings from a survey (conducted by the research team) of 180 patients with CRC about the care they received and the care they considered optimal during their CRC surgical journey. 30 Beta versions of the website were reviewed in two stages by the research team. The stage 1 review included n=10 previous patients with CRC who underwent surgery within the previous 12 months and 1 carer, and incorporated the clinician videos and quiz questions.…”

“…Intervention development was based on findings from a survey (conducted by the research team) of 180 patients with CRC about the care they received and the care they considered optimal during their CRC surgical journey 30. Beta versions of the website were reviewed in two stages by the research team.…”

Enhancing Stoma Care Quality: Implementing a PDSA Cycle-Based Program for Colorectal Cancer Patients

“…By working together, these professionals enhance patient outcomes and contribute to a more positive and holistic stoma care experience. In Australia's public hospital, a specialist-colorectal cancer liaison nurse visits patients each day and access to other members of the allied health care team as needed including the stomal therapy nurse, dietician, and social worker to establish an adapted diet to the patient with a stoma (11) The PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) cycle is widely embraced in healthcare due to its straightforwardness and real-world applicability. It has received the endorsement of reputable organizations such as the institute for healthcare improvement.…”