Essentials of oral oncolytics: developing a nursing reference

A convenience sample of oncology clinicians from 17 practices throughout the northeastern United States participated in roundtable discussions. Discussions about oral adherence were initiated in multiple practices, and attendees were asked to describe what resources they currently use and what resources are lacking. A need for a new tool for oral adherence in oncology was identified during roundtable discussions. Essential information about oral oncolytics in a user-friendly format that is rapidly accessible and organized would be an ideal nursing resource. Review of the literature demonstrated a lack of usable tools, with one exception that was outdated. Desire for an oral oncolytic resource was consistently mentioned. Additional suggestions for the resource included severe drug reactions, initial dosing and dosing adjustments, and how the drug should be taken. The clinicians wanted the information to be organized in a condensed chart that remains current as approvals continue. A condensed resource, the Essentials of Oral Oncolytics Guide (EOOG), was developed to address this need and includes guidelines for starting oral oncolytics, scheduling of patient monitoring, and pertinent need-to-know aspects of each oral oncolytic. The EOOG includes newly approved oral oncolytics and new indications as of December 2013.