DescriptionPurpose of Project: Health literacy (HL) is an individual’s ability to utilize information and education to make informed health decisions. Research demonstrates that using a patient’s HL level and their preferred learning style to guide education can positively impact the patient’s medication adherence and symptom management.
Methodology: At a National Cancer Institute designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a program evaluation was conducted to determine to what extent the implementation of health literacy and patient preferred learning methods to individualize patient education improved medication adherence and symptom management of cancer treatment in the ambulatory oncology setting. Education was guided by a teaching algorithm based on HL score and preferred learning styles for patients that were receiving their first cancer treatment infusion.
Results: There was no statistically significant evidence found regarding symptom management; however, 100% medication adherence was achieved. Additionally, nurses reported increased awareness of the impact of HL on the education of a patient and improved documentation of symptom management.
Implications for Practice: Findings from this program evaluation will serve as a foundation in other arenas within the cancer center and the health system to assist in improving patient outcomes and decreasing hospitalizations and increased healthcare spending related to medication nonadherence. The findings from this program evaluation also reinforce the necessity of leadership appraisal of changes and tools that are implemented within their practice environment.