A Pilot Program Implementing an Evidence-Based Walking Plan to Improve Cancer-Related Fatigue in Adult Patients on Oral Cancer Treatments.

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is a prevalent symptom among cancer patients, even after completing treatment. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines recommend incorporating physical activity as a strategy to combat cancer-related fatigue.

OBJECTIVES

The goal was to develop and implement an evidence-based translational research quality improvement project to improve fatigue in patients starting oral cancer treatment.

METHODS

Outpatient oncology nurses (registered nurses and licensed practical nurses) responsible for educating patients starting treatment for cancer were provided education about the walking program. The information was incorporated into education for patients starting oral chemotherapy. Nursing knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes were evaluated before and after the subject-intensive education. Patient study participants were provided with pedometers and completed the Brief Fatigue Inventory and a survey about their beliefs and attitudes before and after implementing the walking program.

OUTCOMES

Fatigue scores showed a slight decrease post intervention but not a statistically significant difference. Advanced-stage cancer showed a near-significant relationship with increased fatigue levels. Nursing knowledge improved by 13%, and nurses reported increased confidence in six of nine topics. Nursing barriers to education shifted from personal comprehension to a need for resources.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Patients diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer should receive timely fatigue prevention and management education. In addition, educating nurses to address this knowledge deficit is imperative. The information gathered from this project presents an opportunity for further research using a walking plan and nursing education to improve current interventions used to reduce cancer-related fatigue.