The effects of psychoeducational intervention (SyMaB) on patients activation level and cancer treatment-related concerns among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy in Malaysian population
Nor Aziyan Yahaya1*, Khatijah Lim Abdullah1, Nor Zuraidah Zainal2, Wong Li Ping3
1Department of Nursing Science, University of Malaya, Malaysia, 2Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Malaya, Malaysia, 3Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Malaya, Malaysia.
Abstract
Background: Previous literatures reported effective self management program may help to improve patients activation level and cancer treatment related concerns among cancer patients during treatment. However, there is inconclusive evidence as to the effectiveness of such program especially in Malaysia. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of SyMaB intervention program among breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy compared with the standard care over six cycles to improve patients activation level and cancer treatment related concerns. Methods: The design of the study was a quasi experimental sequential design with repeated measures. The intervention group received SyMaB intervention plus standard care (Individually tailored education; coaching strategies via WhatsApp usage group; chemotherapy information booklet) and the control group received only standard care (routine care). A total of 246 breast cancer patients were consecutively assigned to control and intervention group. Each group consisted of 123 patients. The outcomes of the study were measured at baseline (T1), second (T2), fourth (T3) and six cycle (T4) for patients activation level and baseline (T1) and six cycle (T4) for cancer treatment-related concern. Results: The result showed significant improvement of patients activation level in the intervention group as compared to control group (p=<0.001) across the time. In cancer treatment-related concerns, procedural concern (PC) showed significant reduction in intervention group compared to control group (p=<0.001) post intervention (T4). Conclusion: The SyMaB intervention program could significantly improve patients activation level and cancer treatment-related concern. The results of the study could help oncology nurses to develop an appropriate intervention for breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy at hospital and home setting.
Keywords: Breast cancer, patients activation level, treatment related concern, chemotherapy
Topic: Nursing