The Effects of Self-efficacy Promotion Program Combined with Social Support on Clinical Outcomes in Post-operative Breast Cancer Patients Discharged Home with Drainage Tubes

Abstract

Objective : To examine the effects of a self-efficacy enhancement program combined with social support on clinical outcomes in post-operative breast cancer patients discharged home with drainage tubes.

Methods : This quasi-experimental study employed a two-group post-test only design. The sample included 70 purposively selected breast cancer patients who underwent surgery and were discharged with drainage tubes. They were divided equally into experimental and control groups (35 patients per group). Research instruments included a self-efficacy and social support enhancement program, a pre- and post-operative care manual, a personal data record form, a clinical outcome record form, and a satisfaction questionnaire. The study was conducted from March to August 2023. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and independent t-tests.

Results : The experimental group had infection and seroma rates of 2.9% each, compared to 11.4% and 8.6% respectively in the control group, with no statistically significant differences (p=0.163 and p=0.302, respectively). However, the experimental group had significantly shorter hospital stays (mean=4.8±1.0 days) and lower hospital costs (mean=23,481.6±2,936.4 THB) compared to the control group (11.9±3.1 days and 35,521.2±8,962.2 THB; p<0.001). Additionally, the experimental group reported significantly higher satisfaction (mean=4.2±0.5) than the control group (mean=3.8±0.6; p<0.001).

Conclusion : The self-efficacy enhancement program combined with social support played a crucial role in the care of post-mastectomy breast cancer patients discharged with drainage tubes. The program contributed to reducing post-operative complications, shortening hospital stays, lowering hospital costs, and improving patient satisfaction.