Hoff, A.C., & Haaga, D.A. (2005). Effects of an education program on radiation oncology patients and families. Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, 23, 61–75.

The intervention was a formal education/orientation program with oral and written information for patients and their significant others upon beginning radiation therapy. The control group of patients receiving radiation therapy and their significant others received information during their consultation visit via the physician, several pamphlets, and individual teaching by the nurse.

• The study reported on a sample of 100 people (the patient and his or her significant other counted as two people).
• A total of 85 people completed the postintervention assessment: 49 in the intervention group and 36 in the control group.
• All diagnoses and all stages of cancer were included.
• All participants were new to radiation therapy.

A randomized controlled trial design was used.

• State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI)Form Y–State anxiety subscale
• 20-item self-report index
• Profile of Mood States (POMS)–Total Mood Disturbance measure
• 10-item multiple choice test developed for study to measure radiation knowledge

The information orientation session had no significant effect on anxiety, general distress, adherence to treatment, or knowledge about radiation. The program did increase satisfaction with care, use of psychological counseling, and outside support resources.

• The study had a small sample size.
• The study did not report baseline measurements or screening of anxiety prior to intervention.