Provision of information about malignant spinal cord compression: perceptions of patients and staff

Hutchison, C., Morrison, A., Rice, A.M., Tait, G. and Harden, S. (2012) Provision of information about malignant spinal cord compression: perceptions of patients and staff. International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 18(2), pp. 61-68.

Abstract

<b>Background:</b> Various guidelines have highlighted the importance of patients being given information on malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC), both when diagnosed with the condition and as a tool to aid early detection. <b>Aim:</b> To determine patient and staff views on the provision of MSCC information to patients with a diagnosis of or considered to be at high risk of developing MSCC. <b>Methods:</b> Patients with MSCC admitted to a large regional cancer centre in Scotland over a 6-month period were interviewed. Staff were also surveyed using similar questions. <b>Results:</b> Fifty-six patients and fifty staff were recruited. Only 4% of staff reported giving any written information about MSCC to patients with a confirmed diagnosis, although 20% of patients said they received it and 77% wanted it. A total of 54% of staff reported gaving prophylactic information about MSCC to patients, although the majority of the patients (86%) said they would have wanted this information. Patients generally did not access additional information about MSCC and were dependent on the limited amount provided by the health-care team. <b>Conclusion:</b> Health professionals need to ensure that patients get the information they want, which will allow them to recognize MSCC symptoms early for improved treatment outcomes or to better adapt to a diagnosis.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Harden, Ms Sharon and Tait, Miss Gemma and Hutchison, Dr Catherine and Rice, Prof Ann Marie
• Authors: Hutchison, C., Morrison, A., Rice, A.M., Tait, G., and Harden, S.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Nursing and Health Care ; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cancer Sciences
• Journal Name: International Journal of Palliative Nursing
• ISSN: 1357-6321