Abstract CN37
Background
Immuno-oncological (IO) therapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) aim to activate the immune system to induce immune-mediated tumour eradication. Immunological cancer therapy is designed to strengthen the patient’s own immune response to cancer, helping the body destroy the cancer cells. The mechanism of action and side effects of ICI differ from traditional cancer therapies which is an important aspect to address in patient guidance. Currently, the increasing use of immuno-oncological treatments is posing challenges for the monitoring and guidance of patients. Patients can search for information online, and knowing how to use this information increases the patients’ activity and enables them to take more agency in their own care. Nurses must be able to assess their patients’ symptoms and apply triage symptom management based on patient-reported outcomes. The purpose of patient education and therapy monitoring during ICI therapy is to encourage patients to take responsibility for their care and to systematically observe and report possible adverse effects by ensuring that the patients particularly understand the specific nature of IO therapies. The Finnish Oncology Nursing Society (FONS) has detected a need to support cancer nurses’ competence and knowledge in monitoring and guiding these patients.
Methods
The monitoring material was devised and created in a collaborative project between FONS and medical oncologists.
Results
An electronic monitoring resource titled ‘I-O patient monitoring guide’ was published on the Finnish Oncology Nursing Society‘s website (www.syopasairaanhoitajat.fi) at the beginning of 2020. The publication includes highly advanced knowledge of immuno-oncological therapy and patient guidance and has already been translated into English and Estonian.
Conclusions
Well-planned, properly implemented, and patient-oriented guidance supports patients’ coping at home, reduces their need for hospitalization, and strengthens their cognitive abilities.
Clinical trial identification
Editorial acknowledgement
Legal entity responsible for the study
The authors.
Funding
MSD.
Disclosure
S. Livanainen: Advisory/Consultancy, Attendance in advisory board (melanoma, lung) lungs): MSD. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest.