COMFORT™SM communication for oncology nurses: Program overview and preliminary evaluation of a nationwide train-the-trainer course

Abstract Objective The COMFORT Communication Course for Oncology Nurses is a train-the-trainer program funded by the National Cancer Institute (R25) that provides nationwide communication training to improve patient-centered communication in cancer care. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the program and present an evaluation of three courses. Methods The curriculum contains seven modules addressing palliative care communication. Pre-course survey of needs, post-course feedback, and follow-up at 6 and 12 months were used to evaluate the program. Results To date, three courses have been presented to 269 nurses from 34 states and Washington D.C. Post-course evaluations showed high satisfaction with course design, content, and faculty. At 12 months, course participants had implemented institution-wide system changes and communication skill building. On average, each nurse trained 37 other healthcare providers. Conclusions The COMFORT communication course provides the essential communication skills and tools oncology nurses need to provide quality care across the cancer continuum. Practice implications Training is needed to prepare oncology nurses with the skills to provide patient-centered communication across the cancer continuum. These skills include training others in communication and implementing process improvement. The COMFORT communication train-the-trainer model is an effective approach to meet this need.