Optimizing Multidisciplinary Treatment-Related Adverse Effects Detection and Reduction in Patients Undergoing Active Cancer Treatments in Ambulatory Infusion Centers.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to describe the implementation of an interdisciplinary supportive care program for treatment-related adverse effects (TRAEs) of patients with cancer in two ambulatory infusion centers affiliated with a major health system.

METHODS

A management program of TRAEs was developed on the basis of the collaboration between oncologists, infusion center oncology nurses, and a board-certified oncology clinical pharmacist for patients with cancer in two outpatient infusion centers. Patients received multidisciplinary interventions or oncologist-driven interventions on the basis of their reported symptoms during their cancer treatments. They were followed prospectively at regular intervals for further symptom management interventions. To evaluate this program, a retrospective chart review was performed, and data were collected regarding the number and nature of these TRAEs. The outcomes of their interventions were assessed up to 3 months since initial encounters. Data for patient satisfaction were also collected before and after implementation of the program.

RESULTS

A total of 308 patients received 469 interventions initiated either by the multidisciplinary team or by oncologists over a 3-year period. Compared with oncologist-led interventions, multidisciplinary interventions were statistically significant in the number of interventions (P = .004; 95% CI, 17.9 to 36.2) and in reducing occurrences of TRAEs (P = .03; 95% CI, 33.8 to 72.4) such as dermatological toxicities, diarrhea, immune-related adverse effects, mucositis, and nausea or vomiting after 1-month follow-up. Multidisciplinary team captured approximately 40% of TRAEs of all grades that were escalated to oncologists for further management, which led to an overall improvement in management of TRAEs.

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary care for patients in infusion centers led to improvement in treatment-related toxicities.