Effectiveness of a group seminar on opioids for lung cancer patients

Abstract

Purpose: We conducted a group seminar for lung cancer patients. The purpose of the group seminar was to eliminate the negative notions about opioids and to impart the right knowledge about these drugs. Further, we investigated the notions about opioids and the effectiveness of the group seminar. Methods: A pharmacist conducted a group seminar on opioids for lung cancer inpatients who agreed to participate in the group seminar. Moreover, we performed a questionnaire survey before and after the delivery of the group seminar. Results: Sixty patients answered the questionnaire. After completion of the group seminar, the understanding and knowledge about opioids increased, as indicated by the responses of the patients to all of the questions. Conclusion: Complete elimination of the negative notion about opioids could not be achieved through the group seminar. However, the group seminar was thought to be one of the useful methods of educating patients. If a patient resists treatment with opioids, control of pain may be delayed. This in turn would hamper improvement of the quality of life. Therefore, we consider that it is necessary that a patient has the right knowledge about opioids beforehand. Palliat Care Res 2011; 6(1):109-118