Nurse scientist and oncology nurse Iris Nagtegaal investigates how cancer patients can best receive uniform and reliable information and advice about side effects.
'At the bedside, I noticed patients receive different advice on managing side effects of certain cancer treatments, such as chemo or immunotherapy. There was a need for practical tips patients can apply themselves, proven effective, and accessible in one central place. With such an overview, patients retain control—and it’s useful for caregivers.
As a nurse scientist, I lead a multidisciplinary research project for more uniform and reliable evidence-based practice advice on side effects. The website we use, www.bijwerkingenbijkanker.nl, maintained by the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organization and pharmacists, already contains good information on side effects. But the advice was sometimes outdated or not concrete enough. We are now updating it. For example, if you feel nauseous, we advise eating small meals or having someone else cook for you.
The great thing is that patients contribute ideas. One said: 'I go for a walk outside when I feel nauseous.' This advice turned out to be scientifically supported, so it’s now on the website. Together with a physician-researcher, I’m conducting a literature review on mouth inflammation, mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy. We map out concrete advice, such as using a soft toothbrush, rinsing with salt water, and avoiding acidic products.
The combination of nurse and nurse scientists is varied and challenging. One day I talk to caregivers from other hospitals or the website’s product owner; the next day I check directly with patients how they experience the advice. During my PhD, I’ll research how to further implement and optimize this website. Providing uniform and reliable information prevents confusion, strengthens patient self-management, and makes oncology care regarding side effects and advice more transparent, safer, and accessible. A valuable and sustainable step toward patient-centered care in the right place.'
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Pauline Dekhuijzen
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