ABSTRACT

Objectives: To determine if a learning module will increase knowledge on CTCAE grading and determine the effect of this knowledge on clinical nursing practice.
Sample and Setting: 48 participants were matched for pretest and posttest responses and were recruited through the Oncology Nursing Society.
Methods: The project used a quantitative, quasi-experimental online survey to evaluate oncology nurses’ knowledge of CTCAE grading. Participants reviewed an online learning module on CTCAE grading. A pretest/posttest evaluated improvement in knowledge. Participants were queried regarding the unique patients they cared for and the perceived clinical impact.
Results: The learning module increased participants’ knowledge (p = .003). Participants identified the top five perceived clinical impacts: Improved patient assessment, increased knowledge of CTCAE, collaborative reporting, patient education, and awareness of AE screening. This project estimates to impact 5.3% to 6.2% of the 1.9 million newly diagnosed cancer patients based on the American Cancer Society 2022 statistics.
Implications for Nursing: This project suggests the benefit of using a learning module to increase oncology nurses’ knowledge of CTCAE grading. Editing and expanding the use of a CTCAE learning module to more oncology nurses and advanced practice providers may provide further patient impact.
Keywords: adverse events; CTCAE grading; learning module