Effect of Educational Program for Nurses on Clinical Outcomes of Cancer patients with Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression

Khalil, Shaimaa Abd El Salam; Diab, Sheren Mohammed; Alam El-Din, Mohammed A.; El-Melegy, Om Ebrahiem Ali.

doi:10.21608/tsnj.2022.221573

Effect of Educational Program for Nurses on Clinical Outcomes of Cancer patients with Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Assistant lecturer, Medical –Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt.

² Lecturer of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing Tanta University, Egypt

³ Professor of Clinical Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt

⁴ Professor of Medical- Surgical Nursing Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University, Egypt

10.21608/tsnj.2022.221573

Abstract

Background: Spinal cord compression is a common oncological emergency that requires early detection and prompt treatment as it can result in permanent neurological deficit. Nurses are often involved in supporting patients living with cancer. They may be the first healthcare professional to recognize the “red flag” symptoms of MSCC. Early recognition by the nurses will prompt timely investigation, treatment and potentially reduce the risks of patient’s having a permanent disability. Aim: To determine the effect of educational program for nurses on clinical outcomes of cancer patients with Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression. Method: Design, A quasi- experimental research design was utilized in this study .Setting, the study was conducted at Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department at Tanta University Hospital.. Subjects: convenience sample of 40 nurses and 30 cancer patients. Tools: Tool I: Structured Interview Schedule. Tool II: Nursing Care Observational Checklist. Tool III: Patient's Assessment Structured Interview Schedule. Tool (IV): Patient's Outcomes sheet. Results : a highly significant difference was noticed related to the total level of knowledge and practice of studied nurses through periods of study (pre-immediate and post one month assessment periods) with P value= 0.0001.A highly significant difference was found related to the total level of knowledge for the studied patients thought the periods of the study as P value =0.0001.Conclusion:The oncology nurse's knowledge and practice improved significantly after attendance of program sessions. Recommendation: Conduct periodical training programs, workshops and seminars for oncology nurses to refresh their knowledge, and practice about metastatic spinal cord compression and its early detection and management.