A feasibility study to evaluate a group intervention for people with cancer experiencing fatigue following treatment

Objectives

To develop and evaluate a pilot multi disciplinary education and support group programme for patients with fatigue post cancer treatment.

Design

Mixed method feasibility study.

Intervention

Programme comprised face-to-face nursing assessment followed by 3 support and information giving workshops. Workshops delivered large group support and small group discussion with therapists of participants’ choice. Therapists included a clinical psychologist, nurse, dietician, physiotherapist and occupational therapist.

Participants

Six subjects with breast cancer.

Main outcome measures

The Brief Fatigue Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ C30. Participants completed these prior to, immediately after, and six weeks following, the programme. They also completed a programme evaluation by telephone.

Results

Preliminary results indicate the programme provided information, support and management strategies for fatigue specifically, and living with cancer generally. Patients appreciated the opportunity to share their experiences whilst at the same time gaining particular help and advice for their own specific problems and concerns. Whilst not reducing the level of fatigue there was some evidence that impact on function was lessened.

Conclusions

Whilst the number of participants was small, findings from this study are sufficiently encouraging to warrant continuing this service development and its evaluation.