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Supportive Care in Cancer

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01-12-2015 | Original Article

Cancer-related fatigue: a survey of health practitioner knowledge and practice

Authors: Elizabeth J. M. Pearson, Meg E. Morris, Carol E. McKinstry

Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer | Issue 12/2015

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to identify the current practices of health professionals in the assessment and treatment of cancer-related fatigue (CRF).

Methods

Health professionals working with oncology clients participated in an electronic survey distributed via professional associations and oncology societies.

Results

One hundred twenty-nine professionals from nursing, medical, and allied health disciplines participated in an electronic survey. Overall, there was a perception that CRF was inadequately managed at some facilities. Routine fatigue screening processes in the workplace were reported by more than half of participants; however, less than one quarter used a clinical guideline or conducted in-depth CRF assessments. Awareness of interventions for CRF varied amongst participants with one quarter able to list five appropriate interventions for cancer-related fatigue. Access to services for managing fatigue was inconsistent across service types, with post-treatment triage a high priority for CRF in some organisations yet not others. Participants identified a need for improved guidelines, enhanced expertise and better access to services for people with CRF.

Conclusions

There is a need for further education in CRF management for a range of health disciplines in oncology and additional resources to facilitate translation of CRF guidelines into clinical practice.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Cancer-related fatigue: a survey of health practitioner knowledge and practice
Authors: Elizabeth J. M. Pearson
Meg E. Morris
Carol E. McKinstry
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Supportive Care in Cancer / Issue 12/2015
Print ISSN: 0941-4355
Electronic ISSN: 1433-7339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-015-2723-8

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Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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