Objectives: To gain an understanding of the perceptions of patients with incurable cancer regarding a new nurse-led self-management support intervention with an integrated eHealth application (Oncokompas) and its potential effectiveness.
Sample & setting: 36 patients receiving support in the home setting.
Methods & variables: A pre- and post-test mixed-methods design was used with a period of 12 weeks between the tests and qualitative interviews. Outcome measures were the perceived application of the intervention, patient satisfaction, patient activation, and quality of life.
Results: 85% of patients were satisfied with the assessment of their needs and the advice received. They valued nurses' expertise and the assistance provided in their homes. Twenty-five percent of the patients used Oncokompas. However, no statistically significant changes in patient activation and quality of life were found.
Implications for nursing: This intervention can be used for encouraging self-management by patients with incurable cancer. Additional refinement and tailoring is desirable. Offering the intervention as early in the palliative phase as possible is recommended.
Keywords: eHealth; palliative care; patient activation; quality of life; self-management.