E-poster Presentation 2014 World Cancer Congress

Advancing Supportive Cancer Care and Healing: Evidence-Based Training for Oncology Nurses in Georgia June 2014 University of Washington (#794)

Allison Dvaladze 1 , Frances Marcus Lewis 2
  1. Seattle Cancer Care Alliance/University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
  2. School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA

Background:

Georgia faces an acute shortage of nurses and limited opportunities for continuing education. Nurses are underutilized and lack access to evidence-based practice guidelines and training in oncology nursing practices. Evidence shows that specific nursing interventions can enhance patients’ behavioral management of physician-prescribed cancer treatment; increase quality of life; add to self-care competencies; improve healing; improve symptoms control and reduce anxiety.

Aim:

This workshop aimed to:

·         introduce new skills in psycho-oncology to practicing nurses and educators

·         advance supportive care nursing education

·         increase capacity of nurses to improve quality of life among oncology patients

·         identify early innovators/key collaborators

·         identify barriers to delivery of evidence-based nursing care

·         set goals for overcoming barriers

·         incorporate modules into TSMU curriculum 

Strategy:

In partnership with a local NGO and Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) we delivered interactive, evidence-based training modules, pre-selected by Georgian physicians and nurses. Demonstration videos and materials were developed for incorporation into the nursing curriculum.  Content included state-of-science skills that nurses can utilize to relieve patients’ cancer and treatment-related symptoms; reduce patients’ anxiety and depressed mood; enhance patient and caregiver illness-management skills and competencies; and address nurse self-care.

Programme:

The project included nurse observation, a 3-day intensive workshop and consultation with TSMU on integrating the modules into the nursing curriculum. Pre- and post-tests, exit surveys and follow-up interviews were conducted to assess knowledge acquisition and implementation.

Outcomes/Lessons learned:

·         37 nurses, educators and physicians trained (demand exceeded expectation), 9 trainers identified

·         Enhancing Patient Quality of Life and Nurse Self-Care most highly rated 

·         Commitment from TSMU to pursue certification of nurses as lecturers

·         Barriers: Role of nurse poorly defined, limited communication with patient, lack of printed information for patients

·         Nurses reporting positive results after 4 months specifically in patient communication and meditation

·         High demand for additional training