Highlights
- •Treatment and disease information desired throughout the treatment pathway.
- •Patient needs may include support to engage in regular activities.
- •Patient and caregiver needs vary and may change across the treatment pathway.
- •Nurse specialists are a significant source of support and information.
Abstract
Purpose
Concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment (CCRT) is used to treat locally
advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) in patients with suitable fitness. CCRT
is associated with significant toxicity and time spent receiving treatment. Our aim
was to identify the support and information needs of patients, and where possible
their informal caregivers (IC), at key points along the CCRT pathway.
Methods
Participants were NSCLC patients who were either about to undergo, currently receiving
or had finished CCRT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants,
and their IC where applicable, at the treatment centre or participants’ home. Interviews
were audio recorded and transcribed prior to undergoing thematic analysis.
Results
Fifteen patients were interviewed; five were interviewed with their IC. Themes of
physical, psychological, and practical support needs are identified with associated
subthemes exploring specific needs, such as dealing with late treatment effects, and
how patients seek support. Information needs prior to, during and following CCRT were
also established as predominant themes with subthemes detailing the needs at these
time points. Examples include differences in participant desire for toxicity information
and life after treatment.
Conclusions
The need for disease, treatment and symptom related information and support remains
consistent throughout CCRT and beyond. Further information and support for other matters
including engaging in regular activities may also be desired. Time allocated within
consultations to establish changes in needs or desire for further information may
benefit patient and IC experience and QOL.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
March 10,
2023
Received in revised form:
March 9,
2023
Received:
September 13,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Accepted ManuscriptIdentification
Copyright
© 2023 Published by Elsevier Ltd.
