Suggested modifications in oncology/hematology inpatient service during COVID-19 pandemic

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Fayza Ahmed Mohammed Hassanin

King Abdullah Medical City, Saudi Arabia

: J Nurs Patient Care

Abstract

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Background: Management of cancer patients in the current era of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses significant challenges on health-care systems. However, it is mandatory to keep the required level of care of cancer patients while taking the necessary precautions to maintain the safety of both patients and Health-Care Professionals (HCPs). This survey explores suggested modifications of inpatient oncology/ hematology care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A web-based questionnaire using Survey Monkey was distributed to HCPs taking care of inpatient hematology/oncology service including oncologists, hematologists, and inpatient nurses in Saudi Arabia. The 25 items selected for the survey focused on five domains: 1. Characteristics of HCPs 2. COVID-19 infection risk among admitted patients 3. Possible modifications related to physicians practice 4. Possible modifications related to nursing practice 5. Suggested infection control measures Results: Of 215 HCPs, 195 responded and completed the survey. The supported modifications by participants A. Use of oral medications (83.5%) B. Phone calls to admitted stable patients by physicians, instead of physical interview (77%) C. Decreasing frequency of vital signs assessment in stable patients (91%) D. Decreasing the duration of stay in patients rooms (89%) Conclusion: Several modifications in inpatient oncology/hematology practice were supported by the survey participants. These suggestions need to be discussed on local basis considering local infrastructure, available resources, and level of required care.

Biography

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Fayza Ahmed Mohammed Hassanin has completed BA degree in Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University. Master certificate in master quality management at present she is working in Makah Health Care Cluster for Quality and patient safety management. She Applied for PhD in quality Management and patient safety. She also participated in Clinical Research program. She has 10 years as a Clinical Nurse Manager at King Abdullah Medical City, Saudi Arabia & 4 years as a Nursing Director at Al-Hayat Hospital, Saudi Arabia.