DNP Projects
Date of Award
8-3-2025
Document Type
Graduate Paper
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Mary Larson
Second Advisor
Carrie Hoover
Subject Categories
Nursing
Abstract
Background
Psychological distress is often seen in cancer patients due to the physical, emotional, and social burdens of diagnosis and treatment. Patient participation in support services remains low despite the readily available psychosocial resources. The Emotional Well-Being Tool (EWBT), a validated psychological distress screening tool, is often used in a Midwest cancer clinic, yet it was noted that its supportive services were underutilized.
Purpose
This quality improvement project aimed to analyze the perspective of cancer patients on the EWBT, their understanding of its purpose and outcomes, and the perceived barriers to utilizing supportive services.
Methods
It was an exploratory design, utilizing a 6-question questionnaire which was distributed to patients who had completed the EWBT. Both quantitative and qualitative results were analyzed.
Results
A total of 118 participants were included in the project, with 91.53% understanding the purpose of the EWBT, and 80.51% being aware that follow-up may occur based on the results. Only 21.19% of participants reported utilizing the resources that were offered to them. There were common barriers, including time restraints, financial concerns, a lack of transportation, insufficient education about the services provided, and the perception that help was unnecessary. While there was high awareness of the screening tool, knowledge regarding the specifics of the services and their accessibility was limited.
Conclusion
Even with widespread awareness of the EWBT, many barriers remain that limit the utilization of supportive services. Improved consistency in administering the screening tool and clearer handouts regarding services offered, which discuss costs and access, may enhance support service utilization. By addressing these issues, the Midwest clinic can promote better overall well-being and quality of life for cancer patients.
Copyright Statement
Copyright © Casey Wagman 2025
Recommended Citation
Wagman, Casey, "Barriers to Participation in Follow-up Services in Oncology" (2025). DNP Projects. 13.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/nursing_dnp/13