Authors

1. Jivraj, Nazlin MN, RN, CON(C)
2. Lee, Yeh Chen MBBS, BmedSci, MPhil, FRACP
3. Tinker, Lisa MHM, RN
4. Bowering, Valerie RN, CON(C)
5. Ferguson, Sarah E. MD
6. Croke, Jennifer MD, MHPE, FRCPC
7. Karakasis, Katherine MSc
8. Chawla, Tanya MRCP, FRCR, FRCPC
9. Lau, Jenny MD, CCFP
10. Ng, Pamela BScPhm
11. Dhar, Preeti MD, MSc, FRCSC
12. Shlomovitz, Eran MD, FRCPC, FRCSC
13. Buchanan, Sarah RD
14. Dhani, Neesha MD, PhD, FRCPC
15. Oza, Amit M. MD
16. Stuart-McEwan, Terri MHS, RN, CHE
17. Lheureux, Stephanie MD, PhD

Abstract

Background: Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) in patients with advanced gynecologic cancer (GyCa) can negatively impact clinical outcomes and quality of life. Oncology nurses can support these patients with adequate tools/processes.

Problem: Patients with GyCa with/at risk of MBO endure frequent emergency or hospital admissions, impacting patient care.

Approach: Optimizing oncology nurses' role to improve care for patients with GyCa with/at risk of MBO, the gynecology oncology interprofessional team collaborated to develop a proactive outpatient nurse-led MBO model of care (MOC).

Outcomes: The MBO MOC involves a risk-based algorithm engaging interdisciplinary care, utilizing standardized tools, risk-based assessment, management, and education for patients and nurses. The MOC has improved patient-reported confidence level of bowel self-management and decreased hospitalization. Following education, nurses demonstrated increased knowledge in MBO management.

Conclusions: An outpatient nurse-led MBO MOC can improve patient care and may be extended to other cancer centers, fostering collaboration and best practice.