title: Bridging the information and support gap: evaluation of a hospital-based cancer support nurse service.
abstract: Health professionals play an important role in meeting the information and support needs of individuals following a diagnosis of cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability and impact of a hospital-based cancer support nurse (CSN) service. A total of 98 patients completed a structured telephone interview after discharge concerning their use, perceptions and satisfaction with the service. The majority of patients perceived service delivery to be appropriate and reported that they had gained both information and support. The service also had a positive impact on behavioural, cognitive and affective outcomes. Overall satisfaction with the service was very high. Results indicate that a hospital-based cancer support nurse service provides a promising model for meeting the early information and support needs of patients, thereby promoting continuity of care.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer, Cancer Control Research Institute, Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria, 1 Rathdowne Street, Carlton 3053, Vic., Australia. Susan.Roberts@accv.org.au
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Roberts
authors.forename: Penelope
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Schofield
authors.forename: Justin
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Freeman
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Hill
authors.forename: Doreen
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Akkerman
authors.forename: Alan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Rodger
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012944:Social Support