Date on Paper

8-2020

Document Type

Doctoral Paper

Degree Name

D.N.P.

Department

Nursing

Committee Chair

Galloway, Lynette

Committee Member

Malone, Angie

Author's Keywords

pediatric oncology; discharge education; new diagnosis; satisfaction

Abstract

The initial diagnosis of a pediatric cancer is a stressful and overwhelming experience. During this time, distressed caregivers are expected to learn about the diagnosis, treatment plan, and how to care for their child at home. Simultaneously, parental reactions to a new cancer diagnosis often make learning a difficult process. The discharge education process is often a responsibility of the nursing staff. However, there are currently no evidence-based, systematic guidelines to direct the discharge education process of newly diagnosed pediatric oncology patients. Consequently, there is a lack of standardization across institutions, resulting in considerable variability in content provided in teaching for newly diagnosed patients. Quality of discharge care has emerged as a priority for improving patient outcomes and reducing costs of care. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement a discharge education roadmap and nursing resource binder consistent with the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) Family Handbook and toolkit. The specific aims were to impact nursing and caregiver satisfaction with the discharge education process for newly diagnosed pediatric oncology patients. In addition, unplanned 30-day readmission rates and emergency department visits were monitored as a secondary outcome. Results showed significant improvement in nursing satisfaction with the discharge education process. However, further study is needed to determine impact on caregiver satisfaction and post-discharge hospital use.

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