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Article
Pediatric Oncology Nurses’ Experiences With Prognosis-Related Communication
Oncology Nursing Forum
  • Amy Rose Newman, Marquette University
  • Margaret Faut Callahan, Loyola University - Chicago
  • Stacee M. Lerret, Marquette University
  • Debra L. Oswald, Marquette University
  • Marianne E. Weiss, Marquette University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2018
Publisher
Oncology Nursing Society
Abstract

Objectives: To examine nurses’ experiences of prognosis-related communication (PRC) with parents of children with cancer.

Sample & Setting: Cross-sectional, correlational study in the pediatric oncology setting involving 316 members of the Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses.

Methods & Variables: Online survey regarding individual nurse factors, PRC, interprofessional collaboration, moral distress, and perceived quality of care.

Results: Nurses strongly agreed that prognostic disclosure is critical for decision making, but they are challenged in determining their role. Nurses with more years of experience and training in PRC, those working in an outpatient setting, and those with higher levels of nurse–physician collaboration reported more positive experiences with PRC. Positive experiences with PRC and collaboration were significantly associated with higher nurse-perceived quality of care and reduced nurse moral distress.

Implications for Nursing: Nurses should work to be active participants in the process of PRC by collaborating with physician colleagues. When nurses sense that prognostic discussions have been absent or unclear, they should feel confident in approaching physician colleagues to ensure parent understanding and satisfaction with communication.

Comments

Oncology Nursing Forum, Vol. 45, No. 3 (May 2018): 327-337. DOI.

Citation Information
Amy Rose Newman, Margaret Faut Callahan, Stacee M. Lerret, Debra L. Oswald, et al.. "Pediatric Oncology Nurses’ Experiences With Prognosis-Related Communication" Oncology Nursing Forum (2018) ISSN: 0190-535X
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/debra-oswald/17/