Nutrition Education to Build Oncology Nurse Confidence and Affect Patient Care
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Nutrition is an essential part of care for patients with cancer, but healthcare providers lack confidence in discussing nutrition-related topics with their patients. Nurses provided with education can increase their confidence in teaching patients about nutrition; however, data are limited on the effects of this education on patient care. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this project was to provide education for outpatient oncology nurses about nutrition and assess its impact on nurses' confidence, use of nutrition resources, and patient care. METHODS: This quality improvement project used a pre- and postsurvey to evaluate the implementation of evidence-based, nutrition-focused nurse education. Data were collected on nurse confidence, patient nutrition needs, patient experiences with nutrition education, and use of nutrition resources. FINDINGS: The education was completed by 16 infusion nurses. Implementation of nutrition-focused education for outpatient oncology nurses increased nurse confidence and the use of nutrition resources. The most frequent nutrition complaint among patients was related to weight loss, with nearly half of nutrition consultations placed for that reason.
Authors: Jennifer Servant, Lisa Foertsch, Jeanine M Rundquist, Patricia K Tuite
Language: English
Subfield: Health Information Management
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4410599001