A Pilot Study Using a Standardized Method of Measuring Distress Demonstrates Higher Levels in Septic Revisions
Year: 2023
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Combined Orthopaedic Infectious Disease Clinics facilitate care for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) patients similar to multidisciplinary care in cancer centers. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network developed a standardized distress thermometer (DT) to measure distress in cancer patients. We propose using this tool to assess distress in PJI patients. Methods: In this pilot study, a retrospective review of patients treated in our combined clinic over 2 years was conducted. In addition to providing information surrounding their treatment, patients completed a questionnaire and DT, adapted with permission from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. DT scores were compared to a chronologically collected matched aseptic control group. Results: < .0001]. Over 75% of patients in the septic group reported a DT score ≥4, the cutoff used in most cancer centers to warrant additional support. Twenty-one percent of the septic group (26/122) reported extreme distress (defined as a score ≥10) compared to 0/40 of aseptic patients. Conclusions: Patients treated for PJI experience significantly higher levels of distress compared to aseptic revision patients. More attention is needed to measure and clinically address distress. Improved screening for distress would allow us to provide more comprehensive care and possibly improve compliance, outcomes, and resources available for the treatment of PJI patients.
Source: Arthroplasty Today
Institution: West Virginia University
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,500
OpenAlex ID: W4388572604