A Remote Symptom Monitoring Tool As Part of Ambulatory Cancer Surgery Recovery: A Qualitative Analysis of Patient Experience

PURPOSEPatients recovering from ambulatory cancer surgery at home may find it difficult to determine whether their postoperative symptoms are normal or potentially serious. We developed the Recovery Tracker to help patients navigate such issues. The Recovery Tracker is a 10-day, web-based electronic survey that monitors symptoms daily and provides feedback as to whether reported symptoms are expected or require follow-up. We sought to examine patient perceptions using this tool.METHODSSemistructured interviews were conducted from August 2017 to September 2019 with a convenience sample of patients from a larger randomized controlled trial of the Recovery Tracker. Patients undergoing surgery at an ambulatory cancer center dedicated to the surgical treatment of breast, gynecologic, urologic, head, and neck cancers and benign tumors were included. Thematic analysis was applied to derive key themes and codes via NVivo qualitative analysis software. Recruitment was conducted iteratively until thematic saturation.RESULTSForty-three patients were interviewed. Interview responses were organized into five main themes: (1) The Recovery Tracker led to more seamless communication with the care team; (2) symptoms not expected or not listed on the Recovery Tracker caused stress; (3) the Recovery Tracker was perceived as an extension of care, prompting reflection about symptoms and recovery; (4) Enhanced Feedback provided reassurance and helped set expectations; and (5) the Recovery Tracker was easy to use.CONCLUSIONThe patient experience of electronic symptom monitoring and feedback is congruent with the aims of such monitoring and feedback. Further qualitative research is required in more diverse populations.

Automated summary

We developed the Recovery Tracker to help cancer patients recovering from surgery at home determine whether their postoperative symptoms are normal or potentially serious. Through interviews with patients, we found that the Recovery Tracker led to improved communication with the care team, reduced stress caused by unexpected symptoms, and was perceived as a helpful tool for reflection and reassurance. Further research is needed to test the tool in diverse populations.