Managing chemotherapy symptoms via mobile phones

Citation

Maguire R, Miller M, McCann LA, Taylor L, Kearney N, Sage M & Norrie J (2008) Managing chemotherapy symptoms via mobile phones. Nursing Times, 104 (22), pp. 28-29. http://www.nursingtimes.net/managing-chemotherapy-symptoms-via-mobile-phones/1436791.article

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Changes in cancer services to outpatient care have resulted in patients spending limited time in hospital. The use of IT within healthcare has seen the development of innovative ways to support patients in the community. AIM: This study aimed to test the procedures and technical systems involved in using an advanced symptom management system (ASyMS-®) in the home monitoring and symptom management of patients receiving chemotherapy. METHOD: Ten patients were recruited from two centres in Scotland. Patients in the intervention group used the mobile phone to record and send their symptom reports to their hospital and receive self-care advice, while the control group received standard care. A risk model was developed which alerted healthcare professionals of symptoms that were severe or life-threatening. Patient and nurse perceptions were evaluated throughout. RESULTS: Patients believed the system improved the management of symptoms and felt reassured they were being monitored at home. Nurses also found the system beneficial in managing symptoms and promoting timely interventions. The full randomised controlled trial is now underway. CONCLUSION: The ASyMS system has the potential to improve the management of symptoms in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy.

Keywords
; Cancer Nursing; Cancer Chemotherapy; Cancer Patients; Communication in public health; Delivery of Health Care; Health promotion; Cellular telephones

Journal
Nursing Times: Volume 104, Issue 22