Efficacy of proactive information on self-care in chemotherapy patients

The purpose of this longitudinal experimental study was to test the efficacy of providing side effect management (SEM) information proactively for chemotherapy patients. The proactively experimental intervention consisted of presenting SEM information on all side effects the patient was susceptible to develop, prior to the development of any side effects. A control of like patients received the standard information provided in the setting. Sixty patients initiating chemotherapy (CT) were randomized into either the experimental or the control group. They recorded their experienced side effects of CT in their self-care behavior (SCB) logs. Measurements of state-trait anxiety (STAI) and locus of control occurred at the beginning and 6 weeks later. Patients receiving SEM proactively performed significantly higher scores on all of the SCB ratios and preventive activities. These patients did not initiate self-care with less delay or before the side effects became more severe than the control group patients. Performance status increased significantly for the experimental group patients between interviews (initial and 6 weeks). The findings are in contrast to a parallel study with radiation therapy patients and extend and enhance understanding of self-care practice.