Meeting information needs on cancer-related fatigue: an exploration of views held by Italian patients and nurses

Abstract

Background: Interest in cancer-related fatigue has been growing over the last two decades and efforts have been dedicated to investigate this topic. However, research addressing the adequacy of educational resources for patients with this distressing and common symptom is lacking. Only one study has been undertaken and this explored Swiss and British patients' views.

Materials and methods: The current study replicated and extended the study previously undertaken in the United Kingdom (UK) and Switzerland. It sought views on the adequacy of materials on cancer-related fatigue available to patients with cancer living in Italy, and to determine the educational preferences and needs of Italian patients with cancer-related fatigue. These were attained through conduct of two focus groups. One was undertaken with Italian patients and the other with a group of Italian nurses.

Main results: Findings from this study supported patients' desire for timely, accurate and individualised information. Barriers to effective fatigue education included the limited dialogue regarding fatigue initiated in clinical settings. It appeared that nurses and patients held different priorities in symptom management. Further, it was acknowledged that there was often insufficient time to inform patients adequately about fatigue. Participants considered written materials as helpful complements to oral information, thus supporting the provision of information in both forms. However, it was clear that fewer written resources concerning cancer-related fatigue were available in Italy compared to either in Switzerland or in the UK.

Conclusion: The study supported the view within the current literature that whilst cancer-related fatigue is recognised as a frequent and disruptive symptom, patient education about this symptom and its management still needs to be enhanced. The resources available to educate patients about cancer-related fatigue should be improved and made more accessible to patients who experience it.