Oncology Nurses’ Perceptions of Providing Care to Adults With Developmental Disabilities in Outpatient Settings

BACKGROUND: Patients with cancer and disabilities, particularly developmental disabilities (DDs), have reported difficulties in receiving person-centered care. Little research has explored oncology nurses' care for patients with DDs. OBJECTIVES: This work explored previous experiences and training that prepare oncology nurses for the care of, how they rate clinic accommodations for, and how they approach care for patients with DDs, including challenges and available supports. METHODS: Nurses from a statewide oncology clinic network completed an anonymous online survey. Items included professional experience, clinic availability and adequacy of accommodations, and vignettes of patients with DDs. FINDINGS: Of the sample, 94% had worked with at least one patient with a DD, but 55% reported no training. Nurses used accommodations such as adapted person-centered communication and modified support systems. Challenges included varying availability and adequacy of resources to support care. Family members and oncology team members with specialized knowledge, such as social workers, provided support.