Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan E (1), Shek C M (1), Hon HC (1)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital
Introduction :
Communication with patient is a recognized challenge for most oncology nurses. Dealing with difficult patients is the top stressor among new nurses in our unit. Self-efficacy is referred as an individual’s capability to manage a prospective situation. Staff with high self-efficacy tends to learn and to be successful in handling difficult situation. A training program is designed to empower staff self-efficacy on communication skills.
Objectives :
To enhance self-efficacy of new nurses on communication skills and handling with difficult patients and relatives.
Methodology :
A training program was provided to twenty-two nurses with < 2 years of oncology experience in May-June 2019. It composed of pre-reading materials of practical skills on communication with difficult patients & relatives and 3 scenarios-based training sessions. Participants were assigned to handle the cases, while others provided feedback on practice and areas for improvement. Patient relation officer, nurse consultant and ward manager shared their experience and advice to promote psychosocial well-being of oncology patients.
A validated 17 self-efficacy items questionnaire (SE-12) measuring the clinical communication skills of health professional was distributed anonymously before and after the program. Staff’s satisfaction questionnaire was also given to participants. Return of questionnaire was not mandatory. Independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test were used for data analysis.
Result & Outcome :
The response rate of the self-efficacy survey before training 19/22 (86.4%), post 1 month 20/22 (90.9%)and 3 months 17/22 (77.2%). All aspects of self-efficacy were improved significantly in the post 1 month survey (p< 0.05) . When comparing to post 3 months survey, significant improvement were found in 12 items. All participants were satisfied with the program as it was applicable to work and would recommend it to others. Improving self-efficacy of communication skills, staff would be facilitated to establish positive patient relationship and promote quality of care. It is recommended to implement communication skills training as core element for new oncology nurses.
