THE EFFECT OF PEER EDUCATION ON GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLICATIONS-BASED SELF-CARE IN PATIENTS WITH CANCER REFERRED TO IMAM KHOMEINI AND OMID HOSPITALS OF URMIA IN 2018-2019

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States and the third leading cause of death in Iran. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of peer-to-peer self-care training based on gastrointestinal complications in cancer patients.

The present study is a clinical trial. This was done with the participation of 80 cancer patients using the available sampling method and random sampling in two groups of tests and controls (40 people in each group). In addition to the usual training of the center, the members of the intervention group were provided with self-care training in the field of tolls and how to manage tolls. The control group received only routine training from the center, ie training by a physician and a hospital nurse, and training through posters and pamphlets at the center. The data collection tool was a questionnaire for the management of chemotherapy complications. Data were collected at the beginning of the study and during the first course of chemotherapy. Finally, the data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistical tests and SPSS software version 16.

After the intervention, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean score of gastrointestinal complications due to chemotherapy and treatment, and the mean score of the intervention group was lower (Kay Square, p <0.05). The mean score of self-care behavior after intervention also showed a significant difference between the two groups and the mean score of the intervention group was higher (independent t, p <0.05).

Peer-to-peer training promotes behavioral management of chemotherapy, so the use of this training method is recommended for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy along with other training methods.