(P42) Nausea and Vomiting Home Management in Pediatric Oncology: An Interactive Educational Module

Abstract Section 1: Basis of inquiry: Nausea and vomiting are highly prevalent in pediatric patients undergoing oncologic therapies. Many of these treatments are delivered in the outpatient setting, requiring families to manage medications to prevent and control symptoms at home. Poor control of nausea and vomiting can lead to decreased quality of life, treatment interruptions, emergency department visits, unplanned hospital admissions, and organ toxicities.

Abstract Section 2: Purpose/Objectives: Given the limitations of existing patient and family education on this subject, we identified a need to improve the education our institution provides for patients and families guiding home management of nausea and vomiting.

Abstract Section 3: Methods: This evidence-based quality improvement pilot project sought to iteratively develop, evaluate, and revise a new interactive educational module about home management of treatment-related nausea and vomiting for pediatric oncology patients and families. Content development and iterative revision were completed through PDSA cycles, incorporating feedback from multidisciplinary clinicians and oncology patients’ caregivers. The Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for audiovisual materials (PEMAT-A/V) was used to assess the understandability and actionability of the educational materials at two timepoints. The Fry Method for readability was used to calculate the reading level of the educational module.

Abstract Section 4: Findings or Outcomes: Eleven clinicians completed the PEMAT-A/V at two timepoints. Median understandability and actionability scores were 100% at both timepoints. The final version of module content scores at a 7th grade reading level. Twenty-two clinicians and ten patients and caregivers evaluated the educational module and provided qualitative feedback, demonstrating high acceptability. Themes of feedback included that families thought the education would be beneficial, especially early in treatment; the practice scenarios reinforced content and allowed families to apply their knowledge; reminders about when to call the care team were beneficial; and a universal recommendation for sharing this education with other patients and families.

This project created a new, evidence-based interactive educational module for patients and families to guide home management of nausea and vomiting. This educational tool is highly understandable, highly actionable, and written at an average difficulty reading level. Future steps include measuring the impact and outcomes of this educational tool in clinical practice using a quality improvement framework and translating the educational tool into languages other than English.