P-86  Developing and implementing a community care pathway for the management of chronic oedema. Issue Volume 6: Issue (2016)Supplement 1 (1st November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Benson, Margaret; Gaskin, Rebecca; Moffatt, Christine; Peach, Victoria; Mitchell, Mandy; Faull, Christina
• Is Part Of: BMJ supportive & palliative care. Volume 6: Issue (2016)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A41
• Page End: A41
• Publication Date: 2016-11-01
• Subjects: Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; 616.029
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2016-001245.109
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-435X

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Chronic oedema has a profound impact on quality of life. It may originate from primary anatomical reasons (primary lymphoedema), be secondary to cardio-vascular dysfunction, be related to cancer or cancer treatments and is increasingly a result of obesity. The numbers of patients with chronic oedema are increasing and both specialist lymphoedema and community nursing teams are over-stretched. Many community nurses lack evidence-based knowledge and skills in the management of chronic oedema and specialist services therefore often provide care for both complex and straightforward management. Aims: To develop and pilot an integrated community pathway for the management of chronic oedema. Method: A Knowledge Transfer Partnership project was developed by 3M (Industry) with University of Nottingham. Clinical services in Leicester were engaged and an expert advisory group formed. A clinical care pathway was devised through Nominal Group technique. Data from a point prevalence study, across Leicester City was used to operationally define a feasibility assessment of the pathway. Implementation was supported by a competency framework and bespoke training programme. The pathway was piloted with 30 patients receiving care from three community nursing teams. Data collection: Quantitative and qualitative data has been collected via one-to-one interviews with the community nurses following appointments with pathway inducted patients. Such data includes; a consideration of the symptoms of oedema, a record of resource use, and questions pertaining to levels of patient and nurse knowledge. Results to date: The pilot has been underway for three months and initial results reveal an improvement in symptoms supported by an immediate reduction in nurse visits and product use; alongside greater patient concordance.