Natalie Bradford, Elyce Pate, Jane Templeton, Rachel Edwards, Donna Drew, Jayne Harrison, Karin Plummer
{"title":"Workforce Recommendations to Address Distress and Burnout in Australian Children's Cancer Nurses.","authors":"Natalie Bradford, Elyce Pate, Jane Templeton, Rachel Edwards, Donna Drew, Jayne Harrison, Karin Plummer","doi":"10.1177/27527530251318981","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530251318981","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Pediatric cancer nursing is a deeply fulfilling yet highly stressful profession as nurses support families during times of intense emotional distress. This study examined the factors influencing job satisfaction among pediatric cancer nurses across Australia and their recommendations to address workplace challenges. <b>Method:</b> A cross-sectional survey was conducted between November 2021 and February 2022, targeting cancer nurses across Australia. The survey included 68 items assessing various aspects of job satisfaction, work environment, and professional development as well as free-text responses. Both quantitative and qualitative responses from nurses who self-identified as pediatric cancer nurses were analyzed to identify significant predictors of job satisfaction and thematic insights from free-text comments. <b>Results:</b> The analysis included responses from 113 pediatric cancer nurses. Key predictors of job satisfaction included opportunities for professional development, the ability to utilize full skill sets, organizational leadership, and intent to remain in the profession. Thematic analysis of free-text comments supported the quantitative findings. Respondents highlighted the need for better leadership, recognition of the high workload, and greater support for professional development. <b>Discussion:</b> Addressing organizational leadership and providing opportunities for professional growth are critical to improving job satisfaction among pediatric cancer nurses. Developing evidence-based interventions and policy initiatives that focus on these areas will enhance the well-being of nurses and the quality of care provided to patients.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":" ","pages":"25-36"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144102753","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Matt Davis, Sherry Johnson, Jonathan Burlison, Jeremy Slone
{"title":"A Blueprint for Care: Adapting and Implementing Standardized Triage in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology.","authors":"Matt Davis, Sherry Johnson, Jonathan Burlison, Jeremy Slone","doi":"10.1177/27527530251319285","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530251319285","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BackgroundIn pediatric hematology and oncology (PHO), standardized care pathways are pivotal for high-quality and efficient patient care. The institutional acute care clinic identified a critical gap in standardized triage processes, which leads to variability in patient assessment and care. Recognizing the necessity for a streamlined approach, a structured, evidence-based triage pathway was developed to improve consistency and quality of care.MethodA systematic review of institutional triage operations was initiated, pinpointing significant discrepancies and reliance on outdated practices. A multidisciplinary team formulated a set of electronic medical record (EMR)-integrated triage templates derived from established triage resources. These templates structured the documentation process and facilitated real-time patient information access, and comprehensive nurse training on these new protocols was conducted through simulations to ensure adept use of the system.ResultsThe new triage system standardized patient assessment by using a color-coded algorithm to prioritize care based on severity, replacing inconsistent practices with a unified approach. The integrated EMR templates enhanced documentation accuracy and streamlined the assessment process, although the exact impact on workflow efficiency cannot be quantified without supporting data.DiscussionImplementation of this standardized triage pathway is a significant advancement in acute care for PHO patients, promoting consistent and reliable patient assessments. This approach underscores the importance of uniform care delivery and sets a foundation for continuous improvement and potential adoption by other institutions.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":" ","pages":"44-50"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144182473","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"COG KidsCare App Improves Caregivers' Perceived Education and Support During Their Child's Cancer Journey.","authors":"Meghan Pike, Katrina MacDonald, April Connolly, Bilal Marwa, Melissa Hum, Stephanie Villeneuve","doi":"10.1177/27527530251318597","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530251318597","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> The Children's Oncology Group (COG) KidsCare App (App) is an mHealth tool that contains educational materials for pediatric oncology caregivers. While the usability of the App has been studied, the effects of the App on the experience of caregivers have not been examined. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the App on education and support of pediatric oncology caregivers. <b>Method:</b> A 23-item multiple-choice questionnaire was developed using Opinio software and disseminated via hyperlink embedded in the App and on paper. Parents/caregivers participated in a virtual, semi-structured focus group hosted by a parent/caregiver. Participants were identified by nurse investigators using convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. <b>Results:</b> Twenty-five caregivers completed the questionnaire; six participated in interviews. The App provided valuable educational materials for 88% of respondents; 60% agreed it helped them feel better supported. All participants in the focus groups unanimously agreed that the App would have been helpful at the beginning of their treatment. <b>Discussion:</b> Results demonstrate that the COG KidsCare App improves caregivers' education and positively impacts their perception of support. It is likely most impactful for families who are within 6 months of a cancer diagnosis and should be provided to families as early as possible. Revisiting the App with families throughout their treatment journey and into follow-up is also recommended.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":" ","pages":"19-24"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144019041","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Ocular Toxicity in GD-2 Antibody Therapy: A Case Study.","authors":"Brooke Fraser","doi":"10.1177/27527530251318685","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530251318685","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Ocular toxicities in children with neuroblastoma receiving GD-2 antibody therapy such as dinutuximab are uncommon. The objectives of this case study are to highlight the presentation and treatment of two ocular toxicities: pupillary palsy affecting visual acuity and photophobia, along with emphasizing the role of care providers in recognition and reporting of ocular adverse effects. <b>Method:</b> A 6-year-old boy with high-risk neuroblastoma presented to the outpatient clinic 4 days after completion of dinutuximab therapy stating that he was \"going blind\" and \"the light hurt his eyes.\" He was treated with 1% pilocarpine drops and sunglasses for comfort after evaluation by ophthalmology. <b>Results:</b> The boy was diagnosed with bilateral mydriasis. The use of pilocarpine reportedly made him less photosensitive and provided some improvement to his pupillary palsy. His visual acuity did not appear to return to baseline; however, baseline examination was never performed. Further treatment with dinutuximab was not modified nor withheld, as providers were unable to fully determine degree of toxicity without baseline screening, and risk of dose modification or deletion was greater than current ocular toxicity. <b>Discussion:</b> Measuring a change in visual acuity and pupillary response is impossible without a baseline screening before commencing GD-2 antibody therapy. Although there is significant literature and reports on the identification and management of common side effects of GD-2 antibody therapy, less common ocular toxicities are possibly underreported with little guidance on management, thus making recognition and subsequent treatment challenging for nurses and providers.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":" ","pages":"51-53"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144050703","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sue Zupanec, Rachel Hamilton, Alia Petropolous, Chantal Campbell, Angela Punnett, Cailey Riggs, Meera Rahim, Wendy Landier, Denise Mills
{"title":"Canadian Pediatric Oncology Nurses' Perspectives on Implementation of the Children's Oncology Group KidsCare Customized App.","authors":"Sue Zupanec, Rachel Hamilton, Alia Petropolous, Chantal Campbell, Angela Punnett, Cailey Riggs, Meera Rahim, Wendy Landier, Denise Mills","doi":"10.1177/27527530241300092","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530241300092","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Canada represents half of the Children's Oncology Group (COG) sites that have opted to customize content for families within the COG KidsCare app. It was unclear how many sites proceeded with developing and inputting customized content and how well the app and customized content were implemented into practice. This raised concerns that Canadian families were unaware of this new digital resource and did not have equitable access to customized content. This qualitative study aimed to understand nursing site leads' experiences including perspectives on facilitators and barriers to customization and implementation of the COG's KidsCare app. <b>Method:</b> Semi-structured interviews with clinicians who self-reported expertise in patient and family education local practices were conducted. Transcripts were independently coded by two team members using an iterative hybrid inductive/deductive approach, and analyzed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), to summarize results. <b>Results:</b> The facilitators and barriers to implementing the COG KidsCare app with customization were categorized by five overarching CFIR-related themes: (a) features of the customized COG KidsCare app, (b) external environment, (c) institutional environment, (d) implementation team, and (e) the process of implementing and customizing the COG KidsCare app. <b>Discussion:</b> Nurses expressed feelings of tension between support and perceived value of the COG KidsCare app with customization, and their ability to successfully create, refine, implement content and disseminate to families. Using our RoadMap of recommended implementation strategies to integrate use of the app into practice may provide opportunity for successful implementation in a variety of contexts.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":"41 6","pages":"377-390"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142829614","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Sepsis Education and Successful Implementation of a Sepsis Recognition and Management Workflow in an Inpatient Pediatric Hematologic Oncologic Unit.","authors":"Lindsey Blankenship, Kathleen Demmel, Tammy Otis","doi":"10.1177/27527530241282318","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530241282318","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Sepsis is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare utilization for children worldwide. Forty-nine percent of pediatric sepsis patients have an underlying condition rendering them more susceptible to infection. One in six severe sepsis patients has an underlying neoplastic disease and has a 30% higher risk of death compared to other severe sepsis patients. Consequently, focus on pediatric sepsis management is paramount. In a 42-bed pediatric hematology-oncology unit, a Sepsis Algorithm was implemented aimed to improve nurses' ability to recognize, manage, and treat suspected and early sepsis and septic shock over a 4-year period. This algorithm consisted of various elements including ongoing educational offerings, quality improvement methodologies, and sepsis prevention interventions. The sepsis workflow provided targeted care guidelines and aligned interventions previously proven to improve patient outcomes. Pre- and posttests were administered with each educational offering to monitor effectiveness. Nurses demonstrated higher levels of understanding of sepsis recognition and prevention efforts following educational activities. Consequently, a 10.7% Sepsis Algorithm compliance and a 24.7% antibiotic administration within 1 hr compliance improvement was realized. Utilization of the Sepsis Algorithm contributed to maintaining a mortality rate of zero related to sepsis and/or septic shock while patients were in the hematology-oncology unit. Bedside nurses' sepsis management knowledge improved. The Sepsis Algorithm implementation was successful and improved patient outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":"41 6","pages":"425-431"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142829949","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sandra Ross, Jennifer Drynan-Arsenault, Meghan Peirce, Meghan Williams, Sarah Alexander
{"title":"Patient-Specific Blister Packaging of Medications in the Oncology Camp Setting: Optimizing Medication Safety and Dispensing Processes.","authors":"Sandra Ross, Jennifer Drynan-Arsenault, Meghan Peirce, Meghan Williams, Sarah Alexander","doi":"10.1177/27527530241282427","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530241282427","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Safe medication delivery is an essential component of medical care in the overnight summer camp setting, especially for children with cancer and medical complexity. Blister packaging of medications is a method that may improve safety in this setting. <b>Method:</b> In this quality improvement project, we implemented and evaluated a system of on-site blister packaging of medications with the goal of optimizing the safety and efficiency of medication delivery at a large overnight summer camp for children with cancer. Data for the number and types of medications delivered and medication errors were described in the summer sessions prior to and post this implementation. Quantitative and qualitative clinician feedback was collected. <b>Results:</b> In the summer of 2023, there were 551 campers, 342 (62%) of whom received at least one medication and with the number of medications per child ranging from 0 to 18. There were 70/551 (20%) of campers who received high-risk medications defined as oral antineoplastic therapy and controlled substances. The frequency of medication errors was very low across all summer sessions. The mean number of errors in the preimplementation period was 1/1,000 errors per medication dispensed (0.1%), whereas in the postimplementation period, it was 0.4/1,000 (0.04%). In postcamp survey, qualitative responses from medical staff described that they perceived blister packaging of medications to improve safety and decrease workload. <b>Discussion:</b> The implementation of on-site blister packaging of medications is a feasible system for optimizing medication safety and delivery in an overnight camp for children with cancer.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":" ","pages":"419-424"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142711035","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Micaella Sotera Hansen, Ronald Lynel Castelino, Raymond Li, Neevika Manoharan, Jacqueline Bloomfield, Connie Van
{"title":"Caregiver Medication Information Needs and Medication Management Challenges in Pediatric Cancer: A Systematic Review.","authors":"Micaella Sotera Hansen, Ronald Lynel Castelino, Raymond Li, Neevika Manoharan, Jacqueline Bloomfield, Connie Van","doi":"10.1177/27527530241300056","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530241300056","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> The objective of this systematic review was to identify the medication information needs and preferences of caregivers of children with cancer and explore the medication management challenges these caregivers experienced. <b>Method:</b> We conducted a systematic search of three databases (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, and Medline) for studies published from database inception to February 27, 2024, and assessed the medication information needs of caregivers of children with cancer. The methodological quality of qualitative studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Qualitative Research Checklist. Quantitative and mixed-methods studies were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. <b>Results:</b> A total of 813 articles were retrieved using our search criteria, of which 13 met the eligibility criteria. Three overarching categories were identified: caregiver medication information needs and preferences, medication management concerns and challenges, and medication management strategies. Most studies focused on the needs and concerns of mothers of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in high-income countries, leaving a knowledge gap in relation to the perspectives of other caregivers across a broader range of malignancies. <b>Discussion:</b> This systematic review underscores the critical medication information needs of caregivers managing chemotherapy for children with cancer. Caregivers require tailored, accessible information throughout the treatment trajectory to effectively manage medication regimens and mitigate potential errors. Addressing these needs through comprehensive education strategies is essential for enhancing caregiver self-efficacy and improving overall patient outcomes in pediatric oncology.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":"41 6","pages":"432-447"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142829946","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Elizabeth Harman, Susan M Perkins, Ahna Pai, Sheri L Robb
{"title":"Validation of the Abbreviated PTSD Checklist-Civilian as a Traumatic Stress Screener for Parents of Children With Cancer.","authors":"Elizabeth Harman, Susan M Perkins, Ahna Pai, Sheri L Robb","doi":"10.1177/27527530241283791","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530241283791","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> Researchers and clinicians often use the six-item abbreviated Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian (PCL-6) for screening; however, the PCL-6 has not been validated for parents of children with cancer. A valid and reliable short screener like the PCL-6 would allow bedside and/or advanced practice nurses to quickly screen parents for traumatic stress and expedite referrals for support services. <b>Method:</b> This study used data collected during a multisite trial examining an intervention for children with cancer and their parents. This dataset included parental self-report measures of traumatic stress (PCL-6; Impact of Events Scale-Revised [IES-R]), mood disturbance (Profile of Mood States-Short Form [POMS-SF]), and wellbeing (Index of Wellbeing [IWB]). The sample included 136 parents of children (3-8 years old) undergoing cancer treatment at four hospitals. <b>Analysis:</b> For construct validity, we calculated Spearman's correlation coefficient using baseline scores of the PCL-6 with baseline scores for the IES-R, POMS-SF, and IWB. For internal consistency, we calculated Cronbach's alpha using the scores of each of the six items of the PCL-6 for all parent/caregiver participants at baseline. <b>Results:</b> Results indicate good convergent construct validity, reasonable divergent construct validity, and good internal consistency.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":"41 6","pages":"391-398"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142829951","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Overcoming Compassion Fatigue and Burnout in Pediatric Oncology Nurses: Implementation of a Staff Well-Being Program.","authors":"Angie Blackwell","doi":"10.1177/27527530241282319","DOIUrl":"10.1177/27527530241282319","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b>Background:</b> As frontline healthcare workers, pediatric oncology nurses are at high risk for burnout, compassion fatigue, and decreased compassion satisfaction. Research indicates that up to 60% of oncology staff experience some form of burnout. This can lead to difficulties in personal and professional relationships, decreased staff retention, and negative effects on patient safety. This evidence-based practice project evaluated the impact of a staff well-being program on pediatric oncology nurses in a 28-bed hematology-oncology unit at a children's hospital. <b>Method:</b> After reviewing the literature related to compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue, burnout, and well-being, an interdisciplinary team identified best practices for implementing a staff well-being program. This program integrated the components of Code Lavender, which is an alert designed to reduce stress and provide psychological first aid, including social support and a purposeful break from the unit, with staff debriefings, or dedicated time to reflect and focus on the team's emotional response and coping strategies. <b>Results:</b> Nurses reported that Code Lavender met their expectations; 69% agreed or strongly agreed that it had an immediate positive impact on their well-being. The team experienced challenges in coordinating debriefings with consistency, so the process was modified to develop a format that would address the needs of those who access the well-being program. There was a marginally significant improvement in compassion satisfaction from baseline to 12 months (<i>p </i>= .05). <b>Discussion:</b> Promoting healthcare worker well-being continues to be a priority to reduce burnout and to improve compassion satisfaction. Implementation of Code Lavender and debriefings is an important step toward improving the well-being of pediatric oncology nurses.</p>","PeriodicalId":29692,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Nursing","volume":" ","pages":"408-418"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2024-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142711033","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}