Purpose
This study aimed to explore patients’ experiences, satisfaction and perceptions regarding the care provided by clinical nurse specialists (CNS) within a nurse-led clinic (NLC) that has been operational for two years. The study examined key aspects such as communication, accessibility, expertise, responsiveness and the therapeutic relationship between patients and the CNS, the oncologist, and other nursing professionals involved in their care. The study also examined differences in responses across demographics.
Methods
A mixed-methods study was conducted using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with adult patients with gynaecological, urological, and head and neck cancer who were being followed by the CNSs. Consecutive sampling was applied, including participants at the oncology day hospital. A total of 30 questionnaires and ten interviews were conducted. The results from both research methods were described in an integrated manner.
Results
Patients reported high satisfaction with the care provided by the CNS. The identified themes include: general experience and significance of the CNS and consultations, role clarity of the CNS, the CNS as a confidant, advanced expertise in oncology, approach to patient communication, availability and continuity, relationship with the oncologist, and position towards other nursing profiles.
Conclusions
CNSs working in an outpatient NLC provide significant added value to oncology patients. They are professionals with advanced expertise which enables them to provide holistic, patient-centred care. CNSs should clearly communicate their role and distinction from other healthcare professionals. We suggest additional research, especially within Belgium, because of recent changes of the legal framework of the CNS.
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