Authors (including presenting author) :
Mak SY(1), Chau PM (1), Cheung TK (1), Ho MY (1), Ng PY (1), Ho WMS (1), Kong WS(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine (Haematology and Oncology), Hong Kong Children's Hospital
Introduction :
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and cellular therapy (HSCTCT) is a complex and often overwhelming process for patients and their carers. Adequate preparation through an effective orientation programme is crucial to ensure that patients and their families understand the transplant process, the necessary care, and available support resources. This project focuses on developing and implementing a comprehensive orientation programme aiming at improving the preparedness and emotional well-being of HSCTCT patients and their carers.
Objectives :
The primary objective of this project is to enhance the confidence of HSCTCT patients and their carers regarding the transplant process and necessary care. Specific goals include:
• Ensuring that carers feel equipped to support patients throughout their care.
• Improving patients and carers' satisfaction with the information provided.
• Improving efficiency in orientation workflow.
Methodology :
The project employed a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) approach to design and implement the orientation programme. Initial needs assessments were conducted through surveys and interviews to identify gaps in existing orientation practices. Based on the feedback, the mode of orientation was enhanced with up-to-date educational materials, including development of convenient and easily accessible digital resources facilitating patients and carers to review the educational materials if needed. Face-to-face orientations were organized to engage patients and carers. Post-orientation satisfaction surveys were utilized to measure the effectiveness of the program.
Result & Outcome :
The implementation of the orientation programme from July 2024 to January 2025 successfully recruited 22 patients and carers. All participants agreed that the programme effectively met their informational needs. Notably, 90% of participants achieved at least a 90% score in the post-orientation review, indicating an easy understanding of essential aspects of HSCTCT and transplant care. The orientation programme significantly enhanced the preparedness of HSCTCT patients and their carers, leading to a more positive transplant experience. Staff feedback highlighted a 57% decrease in the time required for face-to-face orientation, demonstrating that the structured programme markedly increased both efficiency and effectiveness. This improvement underscores the programme's capability to streamline the orientation process, allowing staff to dedicate more time to patient care while ensuring patients and carers receive the necessary information in a clear and concise manner.
