Occupational therapy intervention for cancer patients following hospital discharge: How and when should we intervene? A systematic review
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Australian Occupational Therapy Journal
Volume
68
Issue
6
First Page
546
Last Page
562
Publisher
Wiley
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
39745
Funders
Curtin University of Technology Edith Cowan University Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital
Abstract
Introduction: Advances in cancer treatment over the last decade have led to increased survival rates. As a result, survivors are living longer with and beyond cancer, often with greater levels of morbidity. Occupational therapists, with their focus on remedial and compensatory strategies to improve function and participation, are well suited to assess and intervene with this population. Despite this, little research exists to demonstrate the efficacy of interventions and value of the occupational therapy role. This systematic review aimed to review how and when occupational therapists provide services for adult patients with cancer and identify where they add the most value. Methods: A systematic search was conducted of six electronic databases. Eligible studies reported on occupational therapy interventions targeting management of cancer symptoms, rehabilitation or environmental modifications for adult cancer patients discharged from acute hospital services. Data extraction and quality assessment were undertaken by two reviewers. Narrative synthesis summarised the attributes and treatment outcomes of each intervention. Results: Nine articles were included from a total of 309 articles retrieved. Eight different interventions were reported for people with cancer (n = 531). Small sample sizes and methodological quality precluded any formal analysis; however, intervention components that showed positive results were person-centred, individualised and included regular monitoring and flexibility in care, with input from multidisciplinary health professionals. Therapists also need to reflect upon the optimal duration of interventions and selection of outcome measures that specifically match intervention components. Conclusion: Despite inconclusive support of any particular type of intervention, this systematic review identified several successful intervention components for occupational therapists working with people with or beyond cancer. Overall, findings suggest that monitored tailored programmes compensating for fluctuations in a patient's condition have efficacy to improve patient outcomes and should be considered when delivering intervention with patients post hospital discharge.
DOI
10.1111/1440-1630.12750
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Taylor, S., Keesing, S., Wallis, A., Russell, B., Smith, A., & Grant, R. (2021). Occupational therapy intervention for cancer patients following hospital discharge: How and when should we intervene? A systematic review. Australian Occupational Therapy Journal, 68(6), 546-562. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12750