[Evaluation of nursing care during treatment of viral hepatitis C by interferon]

Interferon alpha treatment requires parenteral administration and some patients receive injections from nurses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of nursing care during ambulatory treatment of hepatitis C by interferon alpha.

A questionnaire was sent by mail to all nurses who practice ambulatory care in the Val de Marne region (n =545).

One hundred fourteen questionnaires were returned (return rate: 20%). Among these nurses, only 42 (37%) were caring for at least 1 patient for the treatment of hepatitis C by interferon. In the 16 months before the survey, these 42 nurses had cared for 135 patients. The nurses cared for the patients throughout the entire treatment in 81% and only to teach them in 19% of cases. The time spent for each injection was 12 min 48 sec, 2 min 42 sec for the injection itself, 3 min 54 sec to answer to patient's questions, 3 min 30 sec for psychological support, and 2 min 48 sec for unspecific time. In relation to hepatitis C and interferon treatment, 74% and 64% of the nurses felt that patients asked questions they did not ask their physician. Seventy seven of the nurses felt they were did not have enough training to answer the questions. Psychological support for the patient was noted as important or very important by 38 % of nurses.

The role of nurses during interferon treatment is not limited to injecting the drug. Advice and psychological support takes up most of the time spent with patients. Specific training and better collaboration with the physician who prescribes the treatment are needed.