Patient Education Issues and Strategies Associated With Immunotherapy

Semin Oncol Nurs. 2019 Oct;35(5):150933. doi: 10.1016/j.soncn.2019.08.012. Epub 2019 Aug 31.

Abstract

Objective: To provide education strategies to health care providers caring for patients receiving immunotherapy and who are managing the various potential adverse events related to these treatments.

Data sources: Peer-reviewed literature.

Conclusion: Delivering patient education on immunotherapy based on a thorough educational needs assessment and identification of learning barriers may contribute to effective patient outcomes and patient safety.

Implications for nursing practice: It is a critical role of the nurse to educate and empower patients and caregivers with the ability to identify early signs of impending toxicities related to immunotherapy regimens. With continuous learning and clinical experience, oncology nurses are at the forefront for providing high-quality immunotherapy education to patients and caregivers.

Keywords: Adult learning; Education; Educational barriers; Immunotherapy; Nursing.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Caregivers / education*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Oncology Nursing / methods*
  • Patient Education as Topic / methods*