Abstract CN62
Background
As a consequence of a haematologic malignancy or high-dose chemotherapy, patients often have a reduced immune system. At the isolation ward the nursing team supports the patient to keep track of hygenic regulations and nutrition restrictions. When heading home after several weeks as an in-patient, the patient is confronted with the "real world germs and bacteria" again. Our team observed a lot of insecurity and anxiety in patients when it was time to leave the protected environment of the ward. In addition, partners were afraid of making mistakes or not being able to meet all expectations. Furthermore, we discovered that within our team, there are insecurities concerning the details of the information that should be provided to the leaving patient.
Methods
Development of the brochure "Ab nach Hause" ("heading home") - 26 pages - aiming to support: 1) patients and relatives to deal with the still reduced immune system. Based on Nancy Roper’s Activites of Daily Living, we address issues which need further attention at home. Additionally, we provide a contact list of several self-help groups ( e.g.Cancer Care). 2) our colleagues and our team: Our brochure is also a guideline for a consistent communication with the patient. It is important to provide the patient with clear information on how to handle the situation when he/she is back home. A few days before being discharged, a nurse hands the brochure to the patient, explaining its purpose. The patient should read it and note questions if necessary. A nurse checks on the day of discharge that the purpose of the brochure is clear and that he/she is well aware under which circumstances the ward has to be contacted immediately. Furthermore, we developed a questionnaire about our brochure in order to identify gaps and to address potential new issues.
Results
Result questionnaire: high satisfaction, no insecurity, clear guidelines. Readmission to hospital: Patient felt safe at home, could check questions anytime. Hardly any “desperate phone calls” from patients. Colleagues: use it regularly - feel safer to give correct information.
Conclusions
We are very satisfied with the tool we developed. Additionally we are planning on introducing a check-up phone call after discharge.
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.