Personalising care for patients: implementing a treatment summary folder following cytoreductive surgery

Abstract

Background: A patient survey highlighted that patients treated with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) at one NHS trust lacked confidence with the transition of care between teams. A personalised folder of treatment information was designed and given to patients prior to discharge. Aims: To obtain patient feedback on the implementation and content of the folder. Methods: 30 consecutive patients were given the folder at discharge. Participants completed an online questionnaire to determine whether the information in the folder was appropriate, given at the right time in the pathway and enhanced confidence on discharge. Findings: 90% response rate was achieved. Of the respondents, 96% strongly agreed/agreed that the folder was helpful, 4% disagreed; 92% strongly agreed/agreed that the amount of information was right, 8% preferred more information, none less; 74% agreed/strongly agreed that the folder was provided at the right time; 96% said that the content met their expectations. Conclusion: Patients treated with CRS and HIPEC have specific needs related to their treatment. Implementation of the patient information folder at discharge increases patient confidence.