Anticipatory guidance to minimise the consequences of nutrition impact symptoms
cancer, weight loss
CANCER
Because the intervention allowed for regular consultations, the dietitian was able to provide patients with information about what to expect along their cancer treatment. This included preparation for post-operative interventions, e.g. enteral feeding and fasting-related weight loss. Preoperative eating recommendations, for example carbohydrate loading, were also provided. On the other hand, when patients began stabilising their weight and hoping to gain, the dietitian realigned their expectations, with weight maintenance being the priority. From the patient perspective, this aspect of preparation was acknowledged.
…I think I got looked after; I really do. Preparation-wise. Yep, umm, and my weight sort of went up before surgery, so that was good. As soon as the chemo stopped, I started to put some weight on. (Participant 3, mobile application, post-study interview)Preparatory advice relating to nutrition impact symptoms and their management was also provided by the dietitian. This included preparing patients for symptoms they may experience with chemotherapy/radiotherapy or after surgery and explaining the likely manifestation of different symptoms with treatment progression. The dietitian also prepared patients for any notable side effects they may experience with a new medication.