Patient-Reported Symptoms and Quality of Life Integrated into Clinical Cancer Care

ObjectivesTo provide an overview of research and practice related to patient-reported symptom and quality-of-life assessment integrated into clinical care.Data SourcesLiterature retrieved through the PUBMED and CINAHL databases.ConclusionAssessing and incorporating patient preferences, engaging the patient in self-report, and extending the interaction to the place and time favored by the patient are necessary to bring meaning to the term “patient-centered.” There is beginning evidence that these approaches can make a difference, improving care quality.Implications for Nursing PracticeOncology nurses no longer need to be constrained by paper symptom checklists. Patient-reported symptom and quality-of-life information can be electronically collected and simultaneously made available for home and clinical use through the utilization of Web-based programs.