OUT-OF-HOSPITAL SUPPORT FOR PREPARATION OF RADIOTHERAPY IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS DURING COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Introduction Child Life Specialists (CLS) cannot support pediatric cancer patients (PCPs) in hospitals during COVID-19 to minimize infection risk. We have recently developed an out-of-hospital radiotherapy (RT) preparatory workshop for PCPs and their carers, providing multidisciplinary support before the actual radiation treatment. Methods 6 PCPs were referred by the Hong Kong Children's Cancer Foundation (Table 1). RT undergraduates and practising radiotherapists hosted individualized, 2-hour simulation workshop for PCPs with a theme featuring PCP's favorite game or cartoon character. The Virtual Environment for Radiotherapy Training system realistically mimics the RT environment. The workshop included treatment preparation and delivery simulation to improve PCP's compliance with daily RT. Carer's queries were addressed by our professional workers. Evaluative questionnaires were given to participating families and CLS, with 6 questions to assess if the workshop addressed the needs of relevant stakeholders. Results The carers opined that the workshops eased their concerns and helped PCPs comply with daily RT (Figure 1). The CLS found the workshop was as effective as hospital visits, and should be continued after COVID19 (Table 2). The workshop allowed more time and multidisciplinary resources than hospital visits. Conclusions The proposed workshop provides better support for PCPs and their carers compared to conventional in-hospital counseling and should be recommended as a standard service provision beyond COVID-19.