Introduction: Results from an audit on chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting indicated 41% of patients failed to inform their nurse of their symptoms but that they did record them in the diary provided. From these results it was determined that patients may benefit from a symptom management and care diary.
Aims:
1. To develop a comprehensive Symptom Management and Care Diary in conjunction with patients to ensure their needs are being met.
2. To reduce post admission Hospital Emergency presentations in our oncology population
Method: A literature review was undertaken. Medical, Nursing and Allied Health staff were engaged for their input. Patients were also surveyed and then an initial diary was drafted. The diary is currently being piloted by all Cycle 1 Day 1 patients.
Result/Discussion: The results of this study will identify gaps in current service to assist with accurate and timely feedback of symptoms from patients to medical and nursing staff. Results from this work will hope to ensure patients have access to adequate and succinct information about appropriate management of their symptoms post treatment as well as helping to reduce emergency department admissions.