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Erschienen in: Supportive Care in Cancer 6/2013

01.06.2013 | Original Article

Pilot randomised controlled trial of a radiation therapist-led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy

verfasst von: G. K. B. Halkett, M. O’Connor, S. Aranda, M. Jefford, T. Shaw, D. York, N. Spry, M. Taylor, P. Schofield

Erschienen in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Ausgabe 6/2013

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Abstract

Purpose

Although patients receive information prior to commencing radiotherapy, they often experience anxiety and distress. We conducted a pilot randomised controlled trial to determine whether a radiation therapist led psycho-educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to radiotherapy is likely to be effective in reducing radiotherapy-related concerns, patient anxiety and depression.

Methods

The intervention comprised two face-to-face consultations with a radiation therapist (one prior to radiation planning and the other prior to treatment). Patients completed surveys at baseline, prior to treatment planning and on the first day of treatment. Outcome measures included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Radiation Therapy Related Patient Concerns and Radiation Therapy Knowledge Scales.

Results

One hundred and twenty two patients completed baseline measures. Fifty-eight patients received usual care, and 64 received the intervention. After the first consultation, patient anxiety was significantly lower in the intervention group (p = 0.048), as were concerns about radiotherapy (p = 0.001). There were no differences between groups for depression. Patient knowledge for the intervention group was higher after the first consultation (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This intervention is likely to be effective in reducing patient anxiety and concerns and increasing knowledge. Future research is required to test this intervention with a larger population.
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Metadaten
Titel
Pilot randomised controlled trial of a radiation therapist-led educational intervention for breast cancer patients prior to commencing radiotherapy
verfasst von
G. K. B. Halkett
M. O’Connor
S. Aranda
M. Jefford
T. Shaw
D. York
N. Spry
M. Taylor
P. Schofield
Publikationsdatum
01.06.2013
Verlag
Springer-Verlag
Erschienen in
Supportive Care in Cancer / Ausgabe 6/2013
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Elektronische ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-013-1719-5

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