Patient concerns after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation: an evaluation

As survival rates among patients receiving haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) improve, there is increased recognition of patients' long-term needs. In Sheffield, the post-HSCT needs of patients are evaluated in a nurse-led late-effects service through a holistic needs assessment using the Sheffield Profile for Assessment and Referral to Care (SPARC) questionnaire. An evaluation of SPARC data was undertaken to identify common concerns among 61 patients after receiving HSCT; 80% had reported moderate or severe distress caused by a physical symptom, most commonly tiredness, and 56% had reported moderate or severe distress caused by a psychological issue, most commonly anxiety. The proportion of patients reporting moderate or severe distress was significantly higher among those aged <50 years regarding changes in appearance, worry about the effect of illness on family and others and feeling misunderstood. The evaluation confirms the importance of the routine holistic assessment of patients' post-HSCT needs and the provision of an individualised care plan promoting recovery. It also reinforces the importance of prehabilitation to prevent post-HSCT complications.