Objectives

To provide an overview of research and practice related to patient-reported symptom and quality of life assessment integrated into clinical care.

Data sources

Literature retrieved through the PUBMED and CINAHL databases.

Conclusion

Assessing and incorporating patient preferences, engaging the patient in self-report and extending the interaction to the place and time favored by the patient are necessary to bring meaning to the term, patient-centered. There is beginning evidence that these approaches can make a difference, improving care quality.

Implications for nursing practice

Oncology nurses no longer need to be constrained by paper symptom checklists. Patient-reported symptom and quality of life information can be electronically collected and simultaneously made available for home and clinical use through the utilization of Web-based programs.