Implementation of a clinical pathway in breast cancer patients undergoing breast surgery

Purpose: The present study was conducted to develop a clinical pathway for breast cancer patients undergoing breast surgery. We also aimed to determine the effects of this model on the (1) reduction of patient anxiety, (2) satisfaction of the patient, and (3) quality of life. Methods: The present study was conducted using a quasi-experimental nonequivalent study design. The study was applied to 69 patients diagnosed with breast cancer, who underwent surgical operations. We collected data using a questionnaire form, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Questionnaire for the Evaluation of Patient Satisfaction, and SF-36 Quality of Life Scale. The data were analysed using percentages, the Student's t-tests, Mann-Whitney U-Test, and chi-square tests. Results: This study showed that a comprehensive breast surgery clinical pathway significantly improved the quality of life and patient treatment satisfaction and reduced anxiety, even though it did not affect the hospitalization time. According to the level of state anxiety, there was not a meaningful statistical difference between groups but the anxiety level of the study group was lower than the control group and there was not a statistically meaningful difference between them in the period of pre-discharge. For quality of life, the physical, general health, vitality, social functioning, and emotional subscale averages were higher for the study group. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the implementation of a clinical pathway on patients with breast surgery has a positive effect on increasing patient satisfaction, decreasing patient anxiety levels, and improving their quality of life. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.