Feasibility Study of a Transition Pathway at Discharge From Full Hospitalization in Oncology

Patient reported outcomes (PRO) measure the health status directly reported by the patients, without external interpretation, generally collected using self-questionnaires, including online tools (ePRO). This approach is useful in early detection of signs of relapse, with reduced anxiety, improved quality of life and survival, and reduced readmissions to emergency departments in patients with advanced cancer. In the current context where hospitalization is increasingly short, the transition from hospital to home is a critical moment that poses a significant safety challenge Patient follow-up strategies help patients return home, particularly in surgery, with telephone calls from a nurse the day after or several days after discharge. In oncology, telephone calls from the pharmacist 3 days after discharge from hospital helped to identify undesirable effects of treatments. In general medicine, these calls have led to improved patient satisfaction, reduced use of emergency departments and the resolution of drug-related problems, but are costly. The introduction of post-hospitalization ePRO monitoring in oncology could ensure effective follow-up while keeping costs under control. A coordinating nurse could manage this process and play a crucial role in accompanying patients when they return home. The study authors aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a transitional nurse consultation and ePRO follow-up on discharge from full hospitalization in oncology in this population of frail and elderly patients.