Effective methods of giving information in cancer: a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

There is increasing evidence to suggest that patients with cancer require more information about their disease and its consequences than they receive. In an attempt to address these needs, a variety of methods have been used to facilitate the passage of information from health professionals and other cancer information sources to cancer patients and their families. These include written material, telephone help-lines, teaching and audiovisual aids. Although these efforts have been well received, little attention has been given to the effectiveness of the methods employed. The aims of this paper were to systematically review randomized controlled trials that have evaluated methods of information-giving to cancer patients and their families. Relevant literature was identified through computerized databases, Internet cancer sites and bibliography searches. Multiple reviewers independently analysed the methodological quality of the papers according to agreed criteria. From this process, 10 studies were identified. Interventions ranged from written information to audiotapes, audiovisual aids and interactive medium. Individually tailored methods such as patient care records and patient educational programmes were also reviewed. The evidence indicated that the interventions had positive effects on a number of patient outcomes, such as knowledge and recall, symptom management, satisfaction, preferences, health care utilization and affective states. This was above and beyond the usual care provision. In the majority of studies the interventions had no effect on psychological indices. Furthermore, the review highlighted that certain methods should be based on individual preferences for information rather than uniformly administered.

An Emerging Role of Pharmacist in Pre-chemotherapy Counseling Among Breast Cancer Patients

“…In addition, they often express dissatisfaction with the quantity and quality of information received on their disease and treatment [9,10] . This may be ascribed to the inadequate knowledge transmission during interpersonal (professional-layman) communication and care [11] .…”

“…In a study by Hogbin and Fallowfield, time constraints, poor communication skills in doctors, physicians withholding information and patients' incapability to remember the information were the major reasons for inadequate knowledge transmission [12] . As a consequence, patients are less likely to neither comply or adhere to the prescribed treatment and medical advice, nor take part in the medical decision-making process, which may contribute negatively to the long-term outcomes [8,9,13,14] . According to a study conducted in Amsterdam, cancer patients wish to be well-informed about both general and specific aspects of their diagnosis, prognosis and treatment [15][16][17] .…”

Assessing the Suitability of Written Stroke Materials: An Evaluation of the Interrater Reliability of the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) Checklist

“…5 Additionally, patients are able to read information at a time and speed that are suitable for them, choose how much information they receive, refer back to information as needed, and share information with family members who were not present during the consultation. [5][6][7] Health care professionals are encouraged to use written education materials with patients to reinforce and supplement information that is provided orally. 8,9 When only oral information is provided, much of that information is forgotten.…”

Improving Information Provision for Neurosurgical Patients: A Qualitative Study

“…More specifically, the use of jargon such as the term 'lesion' instead of 'tumor' should be avoided. Furthermore, the provision of written, in addition to verbal information, such as consultation tapes and summary letters, can empower patients by increasing understanding and recall l9, 11,46 . Similarly, almost all neurosurgical patients thought that a written record of the consultation would be helpful.…”

“…proposed, such as audio recording consultations 9 , providing written information to patients 10,11 , and physician recommended web sites 12,13 .…”