Perceived information after surgery for colorectal cancer--an explorative study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Patient Care
• Health Information Dissemination

Background:

• Fast-track surgery and shorter hospital stays present challenges for post-operative cancer patient discharge.
• Effective patient information is critical for managing recovery and reducing readmissions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient perceptions of information received after colorectal cancer surgery.
• To identify specific information needs and factors influencing information reception.
• To assess the impact of patient demographics and health status on information received.

Main Methods:

• Utilized European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) questionnaires (QLQ-C30, CR38, INFO25), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) and Sense of Coherence (SOC) instruments.
• Collected written comments from 100 patients within two weeks of discharge.
• Analyzed questionnaire data using hierarchical cluster and multiple linear regression; comments were analyzed using content analysis.

Main Results:

• 49% of patients desired more information, citing needs in post-surgery care, symptom management, contact persons, and prognosis.
• Patients reported receiving more information on medical tests and disease, but less on outpatient support services.
• Gender and preoperative health status (ASA score ≥3) significantly influenced the amount of information received.

Conclusions:

• Women and patients with poorer preoperative health status reported receiving less information and require more support for discharge preparation.
• Patients expressed a clear need for enhanced information regarding their surgery, home symptom management, and future prognosis.