A reassuring care navigator
Diabetes, Cancer
DIABETES, CANCER
Cancer symptoms were worrying to the patient and the dietitian gave reassurance and prompted them to contact their medical practitioner to improve symptom management. This was a priority for the dietitian as poor symptom control impacts adversely on oral intake. Patients had concerns related to the use of some medications treating nutrition impact symptoms and the dietitian promoted understanding of these medications based on prescribing recommendations. When medication had been prescribed to a patient, the dietitian was able to support patients to apply the education information they received in hospital. For example, regular discussion with the dietitian was required to better understand how to dose pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) with changes to oral intake.[The dietitian] kind of set me – Set me right on how I should be taking it [PERT]… Um, things that I was unaware of, that I thought I was taking them properly and, you know, I wasn’t. (Participant 6, telephone, post-study interview)Patients also discussed feedback received from other health professionals with the dietitian, indicating trust in her opinion.… I’ve just had a call from [anonymous] in the Chemo Day Unit & apparently my pre-chemo blood test shows my current blood sugar levels are at 7.1. Normal should be between 4 & 6, so I have been referred to the Diabetes Unit & they will be in touch with me to arrange an appointment… Is this a normal process for people with a slightly high reading or…………….? (Participant 1, mobile application, week 16)The dietitian was able to provide interpretation of this feedback and reassure them when they received positive news; i.e., the patient was unable to interpret the information in this way themselves. Additionally, the dietitian validated the patient of their right to play an active role in their treatment, i.e. to be informed, to make choices that aligned with their values and needs, and to speak up to healthcare providers where required, promoting patient-centred care.