Translating guidelines to practice: a training session about cancer-related fatigue

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychosocial Oncology
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) remains a significant unmet need for cancer survivors.
• Existing Canadian Association of Psychosocial Oncology (CAPO) guidelines for CRF are underutilized due to various barriers.
• Lack of provider knowledge regarding CRF guidelines hinders implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the preliminary outcomes, acceptability, and feasibility of a training session and knowledge translation (KT) tool.
• To enhance healthcare provider (HCP) and community support provider (CSP) knowledge of CAPO CRF guidelines.
• To assess changes in HCP/CSP intentions and self-efficacy in applying CRF guidelines.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving a one-time in-person training session for 18 HCPs and CSPs.
• Assessment of guideline knowledge, intentions, and self-efficacy pre- and post-training.
• Evaluation of training acceptability and feasibility through post-training assessments.

Main Results:

• Participants reported increased knowledge of CAPO CRF guidelines post-training.
• Enhanced self-efficacy and intention to apply guidelines in practice were observed.
• High participant satisfaction and favorable recruitment/retention rates indicated acceptability and feasibility.

Conclusions:

• The training intervention is acceptable and feasible for HCPs and CSPs.
• The training has the potential to improve knowledge and confidence in implementing evidence-based CRF care.
• Future research should focus on practice changes and optimizing follow-up; KT strategies should complement guideline development.