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Investigate whether a head and neck cancer speci c needs assessment tool integrated in nursing rehabilitation consultations early in the postsurgical period would improve quality of life and symptom burden in patients surgically treated. Further, to assess the feasibility of carrying out needs assessments during consultations. Methods: 92 surgically treated head and neck cancer patients at the

Purpose:Investigate whether a head and neck cancer specific needs assessment tool integrated in nursing rehabilitation consultations early in the post-surgical period would improve quality of life and symptom burden in patients surgically treated. Further, to assess the feasibility of carrying out needs assessments during consultations. Methods:92 surgically treated head and neck cancer patients at the Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery and Audiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark were enrolled. A two-arm randomized controlled trial design was used. Both arms received nursing rehabilitation consultations before discharge, approximately two weeks and two months post-operative. Patients in the intervention group had their needs assessed using an assessment tool.Primary outcome was quality of life. Secondary outcomes were symptom burden and referrals for multi-disciplinary rehabilitation follow-up. Results:No significant differences were found in quality of life or symptom burden. However, notable more patients in the intervention group were referred for rehabilitation. Conclusion:The intervention suggests that important needs were identified and addressed, especially emotional and existential needs, which were accommodated through referrals and professional advice. Nursing rehabilitation consultations using a needs assessment instrument may ensure that patient preferences and priorities are incorporated in their care. Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.com (NCT03443258). Date of registration: May 31st, 2018

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