A Nurse-Led Self-Management Support Intervention (ZENN) for Kidney Transplant Recipients Using Intervention Mapping: Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study

What factors contribute to cancer survivors' self-management skills? A cross-sectional observational study

PURPOSE

Many cancer survivors, facing the consequences of their disease and its treatment, have medical and supportive aftercare needs. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the relationship between support needs and survivors' self-management skills. The study aim is to explore factors contributing to cancer survivors' self-management skills.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among cancer survivors (n = 277) of two outpatient oncology clinics at a university hospital in the Netherlands. Patients with head and neck cancer (n = 55) who had received radiotherapy and cisplatin or cetuximab were included, as well as patients who had undergone hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (n = 222). The primary outcome was self-management skills, assessed using the Partners in Health Scale (PIH), which comprises two subscales: knowledge and coping (PIH-KC), and recognition and management of symptoms, and adherence to treatment (PIH-MSA). Secondary outcomes were quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30), self-efficacy (SECD6), patient-centered care (CAPHS), and social support (HEIQ). Machine learning-based Random Forest models were employed to construct associative models. Feature Importance (FI) was used to express the contribution to the model.

RESULTS

High emotional quality of life (FI = 33.1%), increased self-efficacy (FI = 22.2%), and greater social support (FI = 18.2%) were identified as key factors contributing to cancer survivors' self-management knowledge (PIH-KC). Furthermore, greater support from professionals (FI = 36.1%) and higher self-efficacy (FI = 18.2%) were found to benefit participants' recognition and management, and therapy adherence (PIH-MSA).

CONCLUSIONS

A patient-centered relationship between nurses and cancer survivors is essential for therapy adherence and the management of aftercare needs. Training to provide this holistic self-management support is required.

Self-Management Interventions for Facilitating Life Participation for Persons with Kidney Failure: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

For persons with kidney failure, life participation is a critically important outcome, strongly linked to quality of life and mortality. To support patients' self-management abilities, three domains are typically emphasized: medical management, emotional management, and management of everyday life ( i.e. , role management). Although role management is strongly linked to life participation, there is currently limited research on interventions designed to support it. We explored existing self-management interventions that aim to support everyday life functioning, rather than only medical management.

METHODS

In this systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and CENTRAL up to April 2022 for interventional studies involving self-management interventions designed, at least partly, to support management of everyday life. The guidelines by Sandelowski and Barosso were used to analyze and synthesize the results. A taxonomy of everyday self-management strategies was used to further explore intervention content. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tools. Evidence of effectiveness was summarized, and a meta-analysis of eligible outcomes was conducted.

RESULTS

Of 22,667 records, 53 studies were included in the meta-synthesis. Most self-management interventions focused on medical management. Included interventions involved strategies to support eight domains: Activities of daily living, Work and school life, Meaningful occupations, Leisure activities, Mobility and travel, Interpersonal relationships, Role functioning, and Social participation. Major interventions focused on providing education, skill training, counseling, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Evidence of effectiveness was reported across a wide range of patient-reported outcomes, including (health-related) quality of life, depression, and self-efficacy. Studies were geographically concentrated and were of moderate to low quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite its well-recognized importance, research on interventions to improve life participation mostly consisted of pilot and feasibility studies and studies of low quality. Interventions were reported heterogeneously, limiting comparability, and were restricted to specific regions and cultures, limiting generalizability.

Creating the nursing care map in the evaluation of kidney transplant candidates: A scoping review and narrative synthesis

AIMS

To analyse the aspects involved in the care of individuals assessed as kidney transplant candidates and to identify the role of nurses in providing specialised care for this population.

DESIGN

Scoping review. The results were summarised using a narrative synthesis technique.

DATA SOURCES

A review of the literature published between 2001 and 2021 was conducted between October and November 2021 using PubMed, CINAHL and SciELO.

REVIEW METHODS

The research team agreed on a search strategy based on clinical practice guidelines for assessing kidney transplantation candidates. Quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies published in peer-reviewed journals in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese were included.

RESULTS

A total of 377 studies were identified, and 49 articles were included after the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The narrative synthesis was structured into four themes: Physical needs; Psychological and quality of life needs; Education and adherence needs; and Nurses' role.

CONCLUSION

Nursing assessment of kidney transplantation candidates should encompass physical, psychosocial and adherence aspects. A variety of methodologies and resources are available for this assessment. Nurses contribute to coordinating access to kidney transplantation, aiming to improve adherence to an appropriate lifestyle to prevent patients from being excluded from kidney transplantation or suffering from kidney transplantation-related complications.

IMPACT

Based on our findings, we managed to design a nursing care map for kidney transplantation candidates combining the main elements of nursing care that should be incorporated into this process. Advanced practice nursing professionals play a crucial role in accessing renal transplant care.

The effect of a goal-setting strategy with integrated feedback on goal attainment in inflammatory arthritis patients: a mixed method study

Patients with Inflammatory Arthritis (IA) often experience difficulties in daily life as a result of their disease. Unfortunately, outpatient consultations in daily practice tend to focus on medical topics, thereby ignoring the impact of the disease on patients' daily lives. Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) can be used to understand this impact, but they are not enough for offering person-centered care. Because the patient's true values and goals can only be ascertained during a proper conversation, which should include both medical as well as patient goals. Therefore, the aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of a goal management strategy with integrated feedback on goal attainment and Health-Related Quality of Life(HRQoL) in IA patients. IA patients with an active disease were given the opportunity to set and follow-up goals. In addition to goal setting, patients were asked to complete online questionnaires on various PROs, including HRQoL. Ninety-two IA patients participated in the study. The mean age was 51 years and most of them had rheumatoid arthritis. A total of 302 patient goals were set, of which 32% were achieved. In the entire population, HRQoL did not change over time, but patients who did not meet their goals tended to report a lower HRQoL. Incorporating a feedback mechanism in a goal-setting strategy has a positive effect on goal attainment. Yet no effect was seen on HRQoL, but this may due to the fact that general HRQoL measurement are not sensitive or specific enough to detect changes that are accompanied with goal setting and attainment.

Study protocol: The effect of motivational interviewing on self-management in adult kidney transplant recipients (MIAKTR)

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study is to examine the effect of motivational interview sessions on self-management that will be conducted in accordance with the post-discharge requirements of adult kidney transplant recipients. Patient-centered motivational interviews make a significant contribution to activating patients' sense of being capable of changing to realize their self-management.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study is a single-center, single-blind, prospective randomized controlled trial. The participants of the study will consist of 80 kidney transplant recipients at an organ transplant center in Turkey. The study is a randomized controlled trial compatible with SPIRIT. The CONSORT flow diagram has been used in this study protocol. The sample will consist of participants within the 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th months after the kidney transplant. The measurements will be performed in the first and third months after the interviews. The study continues via the collection of data from the intervention and control groups.

CONCLUSION

In order to support or improve the self-management of kidney transplant recipients, new tools are required that are suitable for this population. Patient-centered motivational interviews can make a significant contribution to activating patients' sense of being capable of changing to realize their self-management. The first motivational interview program to promote a healthy lifestyle in kidney transplant recipients, prevent unwanted conditions after transplantation, and improve self-management will be used in this study. After the intervention has been developed, we expect improvements in self-management with a motivational interviews through creating their own strategies for behavioral changes and improvements in health outcomes.

360° Diagnostic Tool to Personalize Lifestyle Advice in Primary Care for People With Type 2 Diabetes: Development and Usability Study

BACKGROUND

Various multifaceted factors need to be addressed to improve the health and quality of life of people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Therefore, we developed a web-based decision support tool that comprises a more holistic diagnosis (including 4 domains: body, thinking and feeling, behavior, and environment) and personalized advice. This 360° diagnostic tool enables people with T2D and health care professionals at the general practice to obtain an overview of the most important T2D-related issues and, subsequently, determine the most suitable intervention for the person with T2D.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the systematic and iterative development and evaluation of the web-based 360° diagnostic tool.

METHODS

We defined the requirements for the web-based 360° diagnostic tool based on previously developed tools, a literature review, and inputs from a multidisciplinary team of experts. As part of the conceptualization, we defined 3 requirements: diagnostics; feedback; and advice, consultation, and follow-up. Next, we developed and designed the content for each of these requirements. We evaluated the diagnostic part of the tool (ie, measurement instruments and visualization) with a qualitative design, in a usability study with a think-aloud strategy and interview questions, among 8 people with T2D at a Dutch general practice.

RESULTS

For each of the 4 domains, specific parameters and underlying elements were selected, and measurement instruments (including clinical data and questionnaires) were chosen. Cutoff values were defined to identify high-, middle-, and low-ranking scores, and decision rules were developed and implemented using R scripts and algorithms. A traffic light color visual design was created (profile wheel) to provide an overview of the scores per domain. We mapped the interventions that could be added to the tool and developed a protocol designed as a card deck with motivational interview steps. Furthermore, the usability study showed that people with T2D perceived the tool as easy to use, useful, easy to understand, and insightful.

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary evaluation of the 360° diagnostic tool by experts, health care professionals, and people with T2D showed that the tool was considered relevant, clear, and practical. The iterative process provided insights into the areas of improvement, which were implemented. The strengths, shortcomings, future use, and challenges are also discussed.

Dialysis, Distress, and Difficult Conversations: Living with a Kidney Transplant

Background: Providing holistic care to kidney patients is important; however, without full consideration of the perspectives of people living with a kidney transplant, the provision of truly ‘holistic healthcare’ cannot be possible. It is imperative to understand patient experiences by including kidney patients in key strategies and future renal service planning. Ignoring these important patient views means that there is a significant risk of inappropriate renal service provision and lack of adequate support, impacting overall health. The aim of this study was to develop an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of kidney transplant recipients. Methods: A total of 23 participants were recruited between two regional nephrology units within the United Kingdom via clinical gatekeepers. In-depth interviews were undertaken. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to interpretative phenomenological analysis. Results: Two themes emerged: “managing ongoing fears of dialysis, distress, and COVID-19” and “dealing with difficult conversations”. Conclusions: Renal healthcare professionals need to understand more than the biological impact of receiving a kidney transplant. Understanding the holistic and multidomain experiences that these participants experience will help healthcare professionals to recognize the needs of this group and ensure more responsive psychosocial care.

Active involvement of young people with T1DM during outpatient hospital consultations: Opportunities and challenges in transitional care services

OBJECTIVE

Little is known about active involvement of young people (YP) with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) in transitional care. This study aims to gain insight into patient-provider interactions during outpatient hospital consultations.

METHODS

Semi-structured observations (n = 61) of outpatient consultations with YP with T1DM (15-25 years) treated in 12 hospitals in the Netherlands. The consultations concerned pediatric care (n = 23), adult care (n = 17), and joint consultations (n = 21). Thematic data analysis focused on whether professionals engaged in open, in-depth conversations; used motivational interviewing techniques; involved YP in shared decision-making; and addressed non-medical topics.

RESULTS

Apart from some good examples, the healthcare professionals generally had difficulty interacting adequately with YP. They paid little attention to the YP's individual attitudes and priorities regarding disease management; non-medical topics remained generally underexposed. Conversations about daily life often remained shallow, as YP's cues were not taken up. Furthermore, decisions about personal and health-related goals were often not made together.

CONCLUSION

By adopting a more person-centered approach, professionals could empower YP to take an active role in their diabetes management.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Using a structured conversation model combined with a tool to encourage YP's agenda-setting and shared decision-making is recommended for more person-centered transitional care in T1DM.

Exploring health literacy and self-management after kidney transplantation: A prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Investigate the influence of health literacy and self-management on complications, kidney function and graft failure after kidney transplantation.

METHODS

We included patients who received a kidney transplant between May 2012 and May 2013 and monitored outcomes until December 2018. Health literacy was measured using the Newest Vital Sign and self-management using the Partner in Health scale (before discharge, and after 6 and 12 months). Subscales are aftercare & knowledge, coping, recognition and management of symptoms, healthy lifestyle. Complications were categorized as rejection, viral infections, and bacterial infections. Kidney function was measured using eGFR and graft survival using days until failure.

RESULTS

We included 154 patients. Higher health literacy at baseline and at 12 months was related to more viral infections (p = 0.02; p < 0.01). Lower 'coping' at baseline was related to more bacterial infections (p = 0.02). Higher 'after-care and knowledge' at 6 months (p < 0.01), and 'recognition and management of symptoms' at 6 months were associated with lower graft failure (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Health literacy did not influence kidney transplant related outcomes. Higher knowledge and management of symptoms were related to lower graft failure.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Self-management support is a key focus for health care providers in the multidisciplinary team.

Evaluation of a Nurse-led Aftercare Intervention for Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Treated With Radiotherapy and Cisplatin or Cetuximab

Background

The supportive needs for head and neck cancer (HNC) patients during the vulnerable period after treatment are not always met. Therefore, more professional support regarding physical, social and psychological care as well as lifestyle is recommended.

Objective

Evaluation of a nurse-led aftercare intervention to support patients recovering from HNC treatment.

Methods

Intervention group (IG) participants received two extra consultations from a nurse practitioner three and nine months after treatment for HNC. A holistic conversational tool, the Self-Management Web, was developed to guide the nurse through the conversation. Primary outcomes were health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and quality of patient-centered care. A secondary outcome was self-management skills.

Results

27 patients were included in the IG and 28 in the control group (CG). Differences in HRQoL and self-management between the IG and CG were not statistically significant. For the IG, all domains of the Self-Management Web were perceived important and addressed by the nurse practitioner.

Conclusion

This holistic nurse-led aftercare intervention was highly appreciated by HNC patients. Though the intervention met the need for support in recovery after treatment, it did not improve HRQoL or self-management skills.

Implications of practice

For both nurses and patients the intervention is feasible and acceptable in daily practice. Self-management support for patients after their cancer treatment is of added value and has potential to improve the quality of regular follow-up care.

Nurse-led self-management support after organ transplantation-protocol of a multicentre, stepped-wedge randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Recipients of an organ transplantation face a number of challenges and often need to change their health behaviour. Good self-management skills are essential for optimal clinical outcomes. However, few interventions are available to support post-transplant self-management. To fill this gap, we developed a self-management support intervention offered by nurse practitioners. The primary aim of the study is to implement and test the effectiveness of the ZENN intervention in promoting self-management skills among heart, kidney liver and lung transplant recipients in comparison to standard care. The secondary aim is to assess the self-management support skills of nurse practitioners who will deliver the intervention.

METHODS

This multi-centre stepped-wedge randomized controlled trial will take place from September 2020 until May 2023. All departments will commence with inclusion of patients in the control period. Each department will be randomly assigned to a start date (step in the wedge) to commence the experimental period. Patients in the control period will receive standard care and will be asked to complete questionnaires at baseline (T0), 6 months (T1) and 12 months (T2), to assess self-management, self-regulation, quality of life and adherence. During the experimental period, patients will receive standard care plus the ZENN intervention and receive the same set of questionnaires as participants in the control period. Nurse practitioners will complete a baseline and follow-up questionnaire to assess differences in self-management support skills. Video recordings of outpatient clinic consultations during the control and experimental periods will determine the differences in nurses' needs-thwarting and needs-supporting skills between the control and experimental period.

DISCUSSION

The ZENN intervention could be a useful approach to support patients' self-management skills after organ transplantation and thus promote clinical outcomes as well as avoid adverse events.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Dutch Trial Register NL8469 . Registered on March 19, 2020.

Evaluating the feasibility of a nurse-led self-management support intervention for kidney transplant recipients: a pilot study

Background

To support effective self-management after kidney transplantation, a holistic nurse-led self-management support intervention was developed using the Intervention Mapping approach. The primary aim was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and fidelity of the intervention for kidney transplant recipients and professionals. The secondary aim was to explore preliminary effects on outcomes.

Methods

A pilot study was conducted in 2015–2017 to evaluate the intervention. Nurse Practitioners (NP) guided recipients in assessing 14 life areas using the Self-Management Web. Participants were supported in developing self-regulation skills which can be applied to self-management of the illness. Strategies included goal setting, action planning, and promotion of motivation and self-efficacy. Adult recipients from an outpatient clinic of a Dutch University Hospital who underwent their transplant at least 1 month ago, were invited to participate. NPs, nephrologists and recipients were interviewed to assess feasibility, fidelity and implementation experience. Consultations were videoed and analysed to assess fidelity. To assess the preliminary effects, the intervention group completed baseline (T0) and follow-up (T1) questionnaires on self-management behavior, self-efficacy, quality of life and quality of care. A historical control group of kidney transplant recipients completed the same questionnaires at T1.

Results

Twenty-seven recipients agreed to participate in the intervention group, of which 24 completed the intervention and 16 completed baseline and follow-up surveys. The control group consisted of 33 recipients. Professionals and recipients appraised the open, holistic focus of the intervention as a welcome addition to standard care and felt that this helped to build a relationship of trust. Recipients also felt they became more competent in problem-solving skills. The within-group analysis showed no significant increase in patients’ self-management skills. The between-groups analysis showed significantly higher medication adherence among the intervention group (P = 0.03; G = 0.81). The within-groups analysis showed a significantly higher perceived quality of care (P = 0.02) in the intervention group.

Conclusion

This holistic nurse-led self-management support intervention was found to be feasible and acceptable by professionals and recipients alike. This pilot had a small sample therefore further research is needed into the potential effects on self-management behavior and well-being of transplant recipients. ISRCTN Trial Registry: ISRCTN15057632 (registered retrospectively on 20-07-2018).

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12882-019-1300-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.