Nurse Perspectives on Referrals for Oncology Patients to Reproductive Endocrinologists: Results of a Learning Activity.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although concern about future fertility for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer is high, referrals to reproductive endocrinologists (REI) are low. Oncology nurses are well positioned to facilitate these referrals but may lack the knowledge and training. This report describes a learning activity in the Educating Nurses about Reproductive Issues in Cancer Healthcare (ENRICH) program whereby oncology nurses interviewed REIs. METHOD: Participants were instructed to conduct an interview with an REI using a semistructured guide and provided a written report of the discussion. We examined responses to each question using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS: Seventy-seven participants across 15 states provided a summary. Learner summaries highlighted four themes related to FP, including Cost, Time, Lack of Information or Referrals, and Learning About Available Options. CONCLUSION: Oncology nurses have an opportunity for a partnership to ensure that concerns about fertility among AYA patients are addressed. J Contin Educ Nurs. 2016;47(8)376-384.