Analysis of patient absenteeism in oncological treatment and its impact: a study by the nursing team

Keywords

Absenteeism - oncological nursing - oncological patients

Introduction: Cancer is a disease with high worldwide incidence, and chemotherapy is one of the main oncological treatments (INCA, 2022). Oncological nursing plays a crucial role in guiding clinical practice and understanding the impact of cancer and its treatment on patients and their families. The care of oncological patients is based on the application of indicators that allow nurses to assess and improve care processes and outcomes.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the causes of absenteeism in oncological patients and assess its impact on the quality of treatment and the efficiency of health services provided.

Method: The research was conducted by a nursing team at an outpatient oncology clinic that serves patients with solid and hematological tumors, performing an average of 900 appointments per month. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data collection. The sample included patients with different types of cancer who missed at least one treatment session in the last six months. The nursing team collected data on the frequency of absences, the reasons for absenteeism, and the consequences perceived by both patients and the medical team.

Results: The results indicated a variation in the percentage of absenteeism over the analyzed months, with peaks in January (18.77%) and February (14.30%). There was a downward trend until June (12.94%). The main causes identified were neutropenia, protocol changes, surgical scheduling, dental issues, and treatment suspension, among others. The increase observed in the first months was mainly attributed to flu syndromes, which impacted the patients' ability to attend treatment sessions.

Conclusion: Absenteeism in oncological patients is influenced by a combination of clinical factors. Targeted interventions and improved communication between patients and the healthcare team have the potential to reduce absenteeism rates and improve clinical outcomes. The nursing team plays a central role in identifying and managing these factors, being essential for the effectiveness of interventions and the continuity of oncological treatment.

Corresponding author: Ariane de Sousa Estevam (e-mail: [e-mail]).