Hoff, A.C., & Haaga, D.A. (2005). Effects of an education program on radiation oncology patients and families. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, 23, 61–75.
The intervention was a formal education/orientation program with oral and written information for patients and their significant others upon beginning radiation therapy. The control group of patients receiving radiation therapy and their significant others received information during their consultation visit via the physician, several pamphlets, and individual teaching by the nurse.
A randomized controlled trial design was used.
The information orientation session had no significant effect on anxiety, general distress, adherence to treatment, or knowledge about radiation. The program did increase satisfaction with care, use of psychological counseling, and outside support resources.