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Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
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A Process Evaluation of an Outpatient Palliative Care Program: A Quality Improvement Project
1David Liguori, DNP, MSN, NP-C, ACHPN, is advanced practice nurse, Valley Health System, Ridgewood, New Jersey.
Summary
Screening for palliative care needs in metastatic cancer patients improved quality of life and satisfaction. This quality improvement project identified challenges but increased palliative care referrals, demonstrating its value in cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Palliative Care Medicine
- Quality Improvement
Background:
- Palliative care has expanded beyond end-of-life care to address holistic patient needs throughout illness.
- Timely palliative care referrals are crucial for improving the quality of life for patients with metastatic cancer.
- Screening all metastatic cancer patients presents implementation challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an outpatient palliative care program's process.
- To assess the feasibility of using a screening tool to identify palliative care needs in metastatic cancer patients.
- To compare referral rates and patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A quality improvement project was conducted in an outpatient cancer center.
- A screening tool was implemented to identify patients with palliative care needs.
- Process evaluation and outcome assessment were performed.
Main Results:
- Nurse compliance with the screening tool was suboptimal.
- Screening led to increased palliative care referrals compared to physician referrals.
- Patients receiving palliative care consultations showed improved quality of life and high satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Outpatient screening for palliative care needs is feasible and increases referrals.
- Palliative care consultations positively impact patient quality of life and satisfaction.
- The project suggests potential for financial benefits.
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