Feasibility of Nurse Consultation in Oral Tumor Therapy: A Web-Based Survey among Physicians and Nonmedical Specialists

Abstract

Background: Oral antiproliferative therapies have become increasingly important in the treatment of tumors. To ensure patient safety, medical care is focused on adherence and side effects. Objectives: To meet increased personnel and time requirements, delegation of tasks to nonmedical specialists (NMS) may be a solution; however, presently, little is known about the options in Germany. Method: At least 3,300 members of the German Society for Hematology and Medical Oncology (DGHO), 580 members of the Professional Association of Office-Based Hematologists and Oncologists in Germany (BNHO), and 1,500 members of the Conference on Oncology Nursing and Pediatric Nursing (KOK) were contacted via a web-based survey. The survey focused on the feasibility of oncology nurse consultation as an additional consulting service for patients undergoing oral tumor therapy. Results: In total, 255 (physicians) and 206 (NMS) questionnaires were evaluable; 90.9% of the physicians were hematologists/oncologists, 87.8% advocated oncology nurse consultation, 34.1% had previously implemented/scheduled such consultations, 58.3% of the NMS were nursing staff, 46.1% had advanced training in oral tumor therapy, 94.2% were interested in further qualifications, 37.8% worked at facilities with established/planned nurse consultations, and 62.1% personally conducted/preferred conducting consultations. Conclusions: Throughout Germany, there seems to exist a group of qualified NMS who are motivated to provide care to patients undergoing oral tumor therapy. Particular physicians actively support these nurse consultations. Extensive implementation of delegation concepts in standard care of patients undergoing oral tumor therapy is not yet underway.