2023 World Conference on Lung Cancer (Posters)-EP15.03. Implementation of an Interdisciplinary Distress Assessment and Response Program for Family Caregivers

EP15.03. Implementation of an Interdisciplinary Distress Assessment and Response Program for Family Caregivers - PDF(Abstract)

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This document discusses the implementation of an interdisciplinary distress assessment and response program for family caregivers (FCs) of patients with advanced cancer attending outpatient palliative care clinics at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada. The objective of the program was to assess the feasibility of a distress assessment and response tool for FCs. The study included adult FCs who were asked to complete the Carer's Alert Thermometer (CAT) and the FAMCARE satisfaction with care tool at baseline and prior to each patient palliative care clinic visit for three months. A dedicated nurse reviewed the CAT responses and addressed FC-specific questions and needs, providing educational materials, community resources, and psychosocial supports as needed. <br /><br />The results showed that of the first 20 FC participants, 80% were female and the mean age was 53.3 years. The highest-scoring CAT item was related to information about the patient's illness and how their care needs may change over time. The lowest-scoring item was related to needing a break from caregiving. FCs expressed the greatest dissatisfaction with the way tests/treatments are followed up by the physician and the lowest levels of satisfaction were seen for family conferences and the availability of a hospital bed. The highest level of satisfaction was for how tests and treatments are performed. <br /><br />Overall, the use of the distress assessment and response tool appeared to be feasible and highlighted areas of unmet need for FCs. Qualitative interviews with FCs at the end of the study will further explore the utility of the CAT and identify future directions to assist FCs.

Asset Subtitle

Nazanin Nouriany

Meta Tag

Speaker Nazanin Nouriany

Topic Multidisciplinary Care: Supportive Care

Keywords

interdisciplinary distress assessment

response program

family caregivers

advanced cancer

outpatient palliative care clinics

feasibility

Carer's Alert Thermometer

FAMCARE satisfaction with care tool

dedicated nurse

unmet needs