Translating Evidence-Based Self-Management Interventions Using a Stepped-Care Approach for Patients With Cancer and Their Caregivers: A Pilot Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial Design.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Self-directed interventions are cost-effective for patients with cancer and their family caregivers, but barriers to use can compromise adherence and efficacy.

Aim

Pilot a Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART) to develop a time-varying dyadic self-management intervention that follows a stepped-care approach in providing different types of guidance to optimize the delivery of Coping-Together, a dyadic self-directed self-management intervention.

Methods

48 patients with cancer and their caregivers were randomized in Stage 1 to: (a) Coping-Together (included a workbook and 6 booklets) or (b) Coping-Together + lay telephone guidance. At 6 weeks, change in distress level was assessed, and non-responding dyads were re-randomized in Stage 2 to (a

SUBMITTER: Lambert S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11704335 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature