Arving, C., Sjödén, P.-O., Bergh, J., Hellbom, M., Johansson, B., Glimelius, B., et al. (2007). Individual psychosocial support for breast cancer patients: A randomized study of nurse versus psychologist interventions and standard care. Cancer Nursing, 30, E10–E19.

To compare individual psychosocial support (cognitive behavioral therapy [CBT]) for patients with breast cancer provided by oncology nurses specially trained in psychologic techniques (INS), or the same support given by psychologists (IPS), versus standard care provided in Sweden.

Measures were done at one, three, and six months after inclusion in study.

The sample was comprised of 179 patients with breast cancer who were about to start adjuvant therapy.

A prospective, randomized study design was used.

• Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
• State-Trait Anxiety Inventory
• Impact of Event Scale (intrusion and avoidance subscales)

Results indicated that CBT offered by specially trained nurses is just as effective as CBT offered by psychologists. Statistically significant improvements in anxiety over time (p < 0.01) were shown between the INS and IPS groups versus the standard care group.

• No screening for psychological problems or treatment before inclusion into the study may flaw the results.
• Insufficient power of study may limit results.