{Reference Type}: Journal Article {Title}: Oral Chemotherapy Laboratory Monitoring and Follow-Up: A Review of the Literature. {Author}: Huff C;Thakkar N;Westlake C;Huff C;Thakkar N;Westlake C; {Journal}: Clin J Oncol Nurs {Volume}: 26 {Issue}: 5 {Year}: Sep 2022 15 {Factor}: 1.283 {DOI}: 10.1188/22.CJON.487-494 {Abstract}: BACKGROUND: There are many inefficiencies related to oral chemotherapy (OC) laboratory monitoring and follow-up in the ambulatory clinic setting. Patients with cancer prescribed OC have a higher risk of adverse events when there is inconsistent laboratory test result reporting and follow-up from their oncology provider.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to improve OC laboratory monitoring by identifying potential barriers and opportunities for reliable communication between patients and providers in the outpatient clinical setting.
METHODS: A literature review found 76 articles, of which 15 were selected for review. Six themes were synthesized and discussed.
RESULTS: Healthcare systems use technology, standard pathways, and clear patient-provider communication following laboratory testing to ensure patient safety. Implementing and testing evidence-based solutions and structured frameworks to identify gaps in outpatient laboratory monitoring and follow-up can improve patient satisfaction and safety during OC treatment.