An online intervention to improve oncology health professional self-efficacy in communicating with carers: Hybrid effectiveness-implementation evaluation of the eTRIO program

Rebekah Laidsaar-Powell, Sarah Giunta, Phyllis Butow, Sandra Turner, Daniel Costa, Christobel Saunders, Bogda Koczwara, Judy Kay, Michael Jefford, Penelope Schofield, Frances Boyle, Patsy Yates, Kate White, Puma Sundaresan, Suganthy Varadarajan, Ilona Juraskova

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: Many oncology health professionals (HPs) report communicating with carers as complex; and receive limited carer-relevant training. We developed an online HP education program for supporting and managing carer involvement (eTRIO). We aimed to assess whether HPs’ self-efficacy in carer communication, knowledge, and decision-making preferences improve following eTRIO. Satisfaction and implementation potential were assessed. 

Methods: This type 1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation study used a pre-post single arm intervention design. HPs completed baseline measures, the eTRIO online module, and measures at 1- and 12-weeks post-intervention. Measures included: self-efficacy in carer communication (13-items), applied knowledge (7-items), preference for carer involvement in decisions (1-item). Fifteen of participants completed feedback interviews which underwent thematic analysis. User analytics were collected and analysed. 

Results: Fifty-six HPs completed baseline measures, 42 completed post- and follow-up measures. At baseline mean self-efficacy score was 88. HPs showed a statistically significant increase in self-efficacy post-intervention (mean = 105.8, CI [12.99, 20.47]), maintained at 12-weeks (mean = 101.1, CI [8.00, 15.72]). There were no changes in knowledge or decision-making preferences. Program engagement and satisfaction were high, 86.7% participants rated eTRIO as very/extremely helpful. 

Conclusions and Practice Implications: eTRIO provided HPs with confidence to effectively engage with carers and manage complex situations such as family dominance. These gains are noteworthy, as conflict with families/carers contributes to HP burnout.

Original languageEnglish
Article number108251
Number of pages8
JournalPatient Education and Counseling
Volume124
Early online date16 Mar 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jul 2024

Keywords

  • Communication skills training
  • Family carers
  • Health professional
  • Oncology
  • Online education

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