Randomised controlled trial of a tailored information pack for patients undergoing surgery and treatment for rectal cancer

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of a tailored information package for rectal cancer patients on satisfaction with information, anxiety and depression and readjustment.

Method: The study used a randomised control trial method. Seventy six patients undergoing surgery and treatment for rectal cancer were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 43) or control group (n = 33). The intervention group received an information pack tailored according to their treatment plan and preferred information. The control group received the information currently given to these patients. Satisfaction with information was measured using the Patient Satisfaction with Cancer Treatment Education (PSCaTE) scale, anxiety and depression were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and readjustment was measured using the Reintegration to Normal Living Index, at three time points.

Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the intervention and control group on pre and post intervention scores with patients in the intervention group expressing a higher level of satisfaction with information than those in the control group at Times 2 and 3 (p = 0.00 for both). The intervention group also had a significantly lower anxiety score than the control group at Time 3 (p = 0.03). There was no difference between depression and readjustment scores in the two groups.

Conclusion: The results support the hypothesis that a tailored information pack for patients with rectal cancer will positively affect satisfaction with information. These results will enhance the knowledge base surrounding the provision of tailored information to specific patient groups.

Keywords: Anxiety; Depression; Information; Readjustment; Rectal cancer; Satisfaction.