5635 - Assessment of emotional discomfort of oncological patients in the first nursing visit at Donostia University Hospital

Background

A cancer diagnosis often causes an emotional impact with signs of anxiety, uncertainty and subjective discomfort. It´s necessary to identify and assess emotional discomfort to offer quality treatment articulated around the patient and his / her demand. The design of a questionnaire that is easy to use and understand, allows the detection of patients susceptible to referral to the Psycho-oncology Unit (POU).

Methods

- Prepare a PAQ that includes: Evaluation of emotional distress assisted by visual analogue scales (VAS); Modified Gijón scale (sociofamilar assessment scale); previous use of psychoactive drugs - Include PAQ in the first nursing visit - Quick referral to POU - Interview with psycho-oncology nurse - Valuation, diagnosis and treatment planning by POU - Data recording - Data analysis.

Results

Patients with a positive PAQ are referred to the POU where the liaison nurse performs an interview with the patient and / or family. The nurse collects data on psychobiography, oncological disease, psychic sphere, frequent affections, previous contacts with psychologists / psychiatrists and treatments with psychoactive drugs. The POU will offer the patient the most appropriate resource for their needs (Psychotherapy, Psychopharmaceuticals, and Social Work Service).

Conclusions

The inclusion of the PAQ in the first visit of nursing allows the detection and early treatment of disorders in the psychosocial area. We achieve an optimal use of resources, a greater adherence to the proposed oncological treatment, alleviate problems that are found throughout the oncological treatment and improve the quality of life of our patients by reducing emotional discomfort.

Clinical trial identification

Editorial acknowledgement

Legal entity responsible for the study

The authors.

Funding

Has not received any funding.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.