Using nominal group technique to compare patients’ and clinicians’ perspectives on symptoms in multiple myeloma to inform the development of a self management tool for patients with relapsed myeloma [version 3; peer review: 1 approved, 2 approved with reservations]

Abstract

Background The nominal group technique (NGT) allows stakeholders to directly generate items for needs assessment. The objective was to demonstrate the use of NGT to inform the development of a healthcare app in patients with relapsed myeloma. Healthcare professionals with experience in the care of patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma were invited to participate. Methods One NGT group was conducted. In the group, health care professionals working in haematology were asked to vote anonymously in order of highest priority, on symptoms previously highlighted by relapsed/refractory myeloma patients in four focus groups. Results A total of 18 healthcare professionals working in the area of haematology participated in the NGT discussion; consultants (n=6), haematology registrars (n=2), specialist nurses [Advanced Nurse Practitioner/Clinical Nurse Specialist] (haematology) (n=3), staff nurse (n=1), and “other” health care professionals (n=6). Participants ranged in experience of working with myeloma patients from 2 years to over 27 years. The symptoms voted in highest priority were: Pain, Fatigue, Peripheral Neuropathy, Infection Risk and Steroid Induced Side Effects. Conclusions The NGT was an efficient method for obtaining information to inform a healthcare app.

Keywords

• Nominal Group Technique
• Relapsed Myeloma
• Self Management
• Patient Priorities
• Healthcare app
• Chronic illness management
• eng