The implementation of a novel patient symptom screening tool: The Odette Cancer Centre (OCC) experience

In 2017, as part of a readiness plan for the launch of a novel symptom screening tool for prostate cancer patients, an interprofessional working group was assembled at Odette Cancer Centre (OCC). A provincial Phase II pilot for the tool had stated (based on stakeholder feedback) that there was a need to: "Develop training and resources for patients and clinicians that facilitate the interpretation of patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) …." With this recommendation in mind, the working group aimed to develop and implement a training and education plan. The plan would support healthcare professionals (HCPs) in their clinical response to the PROM tool symptom screening scores.The aim was to encourage evidence based symptom management and therefore improve care for patients.

A questionnaire was developed to elicit information regarding HCP's comfort level and knowledge related to issues experienced by prostate cancer patients. The issues were categorised according to the domains identified within the screening tool, i.e., bowel, urinary, sexual and hormonal/vitality domains. The questionnaire was emailed to all identified stakeholders via institutional email. Feedback from the questionnaire was utilised to develop an education work plan. Five education sessions were developed with pre session materials shared via email. Each session was evaluated via an anonymous and voluntary three item questionnaire completed at the end of each session. Chart audits of 20 prostate cancer patients' electronic medical records (EMR) were carried out pre and post launch of the education program and the novel screening tool. The audit process was to support assessment of any changes in HCPs clinical response to prostate cancer patient issues.

There were 50 responses to the preliminary needs assessment questionnaire (approximately 29% response rate). The sexual health domain was identified as the one with which HCPs had the least knowledge and comfort level. Five education sessions were developed and carried out with an average attendance of 14 HCPs from a variety of disciplines. Feedback demonstrated that the majority of attendees agreed or strongly agreed that the sessions increased their knowledge on each of the topics and that they were deemed useful for their clinical practice.The audit data showed differences in documentation of patient issues pre and post education program and implementation of the novel screening tool.

Employing a systematic approach, with interprofessional engagement, can support successful adoption of new initiatives such as a novel site specific screening tool. Ongoing assessment of HCPs education needs can be carried out using this process. Establishing a database of resources to facilitate independent education may be useful for some HCPs.