Development of a preparatory sensory information videotape for women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer

Abstract

This study describes the development and testing of a preparatory sensory information (PSI) videotape for women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer. In telephone interviews, 40 women described the sensations they experienced before, during, and after receiving chemotherapy. Sensations described by the women were linked with procedural and temporal elements identified by certified advanced practice oncology nurses to develop a script for the PSI videotape. Women currently receiving chemotherapy or who had completed chemotherapy within the last 6 months were asked to share their experiences on videotape. After editing, a 20-minute PSI videotape was produced. Pilot testing with a group of 20 women demonstrated that the intervention helped to prepare them for the sensory experiences associated with chemotherapy and was helpful in developing anticipatory coping and self-care behaviors.