Detecting Distress: Introducing Routine Screening in a Gynecologic Cancer Setting

BACKGROUND: Cancer results in a wide range of challenges that contribute to patient distress. Detecting distress in patients can result in improved patient outcomes, and early intervention can avoid patients having unmet needs. OBJECTIVES: The aims were to determine the prevalence of distress in patients with gynecologic cancers, identify specific problems, and explore staff perceptions of distress screening. METHODS: A mixed-methods design was used. Quantitative data were collected on distress levels and problems. Qualitative interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals. FINDINGS: Sixty-six percent of women scored 4 or greater on the Distress Thermometer, which was used as the indicator for follow-up or referral. A third reported low distress, and the same proportion was highly distressed. The top five problems identified by participants were nervousness, worry, fears, fatigue, and sleep problems.