Needs assessment in patients surgically treated for head and neck cancer—a randomized controlled trial

Purpose: To investigate the effect and feasibility of a head and neck cancer–specific needs assessment tool integrated into nursing rehabilitation consultations early in the post-surgical period on quality of life, symptom burden, and referrals for multidisciplinary follow-up. Methods: Ninety-two surgically treated patients with head and neck cancer were enrolled in a two-arm randomized controlled trial. All participants received nursing rehabilitation consultations prior to discharge, and two weeks and two months post-operative. The intervention group had their needs assessed using Patient Concerns Inventory, while standard care used a systematic questioning approach. Primary outcome was quality of life. Secondary outcomes were symptom burden and referrals for multidisciplinary rehabilitation follow-up. Results: No significant differences were found in quality of life or symptom burden between groups. However, 35% more patients in the intervention group were referred for rehabilitation. The attrition rate was similar in both groups, with a dropout rate of six in each group. No patients declined using the Patient Concerns Inventory. Conclusion: The intervention showed no improvement in QoL or symptom burden compared to standard care. However, the results suggest that important needs were identified and addressed. Especially emotional and existential needs, which were accommodated through referrals and professional advice. Nursing rehabilitation consultations using the Patient Concerns Inventory are feasible and may ensure that patient preferences and priorities are incorporated in their care. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.com (NCT03443258). Date of registration: May 31^st, 2018.