Continuity of information for breast cancer patients: the development, use and evaluation of a multidisciplinary care-protocol.
The multidisciplinary nature of much patient-care may lead to gaps in the continuity of information which they receive, as well as to different care-professionals giving them contradictory information. As a counter-measure, a protocol has been developed which integrates medical, nursing, and a variety of extramural events and activities into a comprehensive description of 15 'moments' in the care of breast cancer surgery-patients. Among innovations, the protocol includes information about psychosocial guidance following diagnosis, and about the discharge procedure and contact with fellow-sufferers. The protocol was implemented in Rotterdam in 1994, in two hospitals and in the community; and evaluated formatively on the basis of reactions from 53 patients and 81 care-professionals. Both groups found its form and content to be successful and informative.
van Wersch
A
A
Institute of Health and Environmental Issues (IGO), Willemstad, The Netherlands.
Bonnema
J
J
Prinsen
B
B
Pruyn
J
J
Wiggers
T
T
van Geel
A N
AN
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D019091:Critical Pathways; D003663:Decision Trees; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012944:Social Support