Dockham, B., Schafenacker, A., Yoon, H., Ronis, D.L., Kershaw, T., Titler, M., & Northouse, L. (2015). Implementation of a psychoeducational program for cancer survivors and family caregivers at a Cancer Support Community affiliate: A pilot effectiveness study. Cancer Nursing. Advance online publication.
To examine the effectiveness and feasibility of the Family involvement, Optimistic attitude, Coping effectiveness, Uncertainty reduction and Symptom management (FOCUS) program on the quality of life (QOL), benefits of illness and caregiving, communication, and support of cancer survivors and their caregivers in a cancer support community (CSC) site using a small group format
Researchers modified the FOCUS program (a nurse-delivered, home-based intervention for patient/caregiver dyads) for use and administration by social workers at a CSC site to cancer survivors and their caregivers. The program was administered in six sessions over six weeks to three to four dyads in a small-group format.
Pre- and postintervention study with no control group
The intervention effect was assessed by dyadic scores (survivors and caregivers were treated as a unit). Dyadic QOL (physical, emotional, and functional) was significantly improved from preintervention to postintervention, but there was no improvement in social QOL. Dyadic perception of illness and self-efficacy also were significantly improved, but dyadic communication and support were not. The dyadic main effect size ranged from small to moderate for different outcomes. Effect sizes were larger for survivors than for caregivers. For feasibility, the enrollment rate was 60%, retention was 92%, and the intervention fidelity was 94%. Caregivers and survivors were highly satisfied with the intervention.
The modified FOCUS program was feasible and effective when administered to small groups of survivor/caregiver dyads. However, the assessment of improvement in outcomes considering the dyad a unit may lead to confusion in interpreting the outcomes of specific participants (survivors versus caregivers).
Tailored interventions to assist caregivers are effective. Collaborations with community settings that allow for the administration of evidence-based programs assisting caregivers may make such interventions more feasible and available to larger numbers of patients and caregivers. Careful attention to intervention fidelity is essential when programs are translated on a larger scale.