Background/rationale: Autologous stem cell transplant (AuSCT) is associated with significant psychological impacts with lengthy hospital stays and recovery. Although psychology prehabilitation is recommended, it is unknown what the optimal psychological prehabilitation intervention is. Aim: To understand the psychological needs of AuSCT recipients and potential of psychological prehabilitation in meeting these needs, to inform the development of psychological prehabilitation for AuSCT recipients.
Methods: Semi-structured one-on-one interviews with regional Victorian AuSCT recipients and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Eligible AuSCT recipients: had undergone AuSCT between 3 months to 2 years previously, were aged ≥18 years, could read and speak English and were seen by clinical psychology before, during or after AuSCT. HCPs working with patients undergoing AuSCT were recruited through email invitation. Interviews were conducted via Zoom and transcribed. Data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, with triangulation utilised to identify themes.
Results: Nine AuSCT recipients (50% response) and 12 HCPs (54% response) were interviewed, with data saturation reached. Four themes (each with subthemes) emerged and were common across participant groups. Two themes addressed potential of psychological prehabilitation to assist patients: i) Fostering Psychological Preparedness (Exploring Expectations, Addressing Psychological Concerns) and ii) Getting Through the Long Haul (Prioritising Social Support, Planning Emotional and Practical Care). Theme iii) Strengthening Engagement with Psychology (Destigmatising Psychology, Psychology Enhances Overall Prehabilitation) considered integrating psychological prehabilitation within the multidisciplinary team may overcome barriers to engaging with psychology. In theme iv) Towards Sustainability (Individualised Stepped-Care, Screening and Risks) strategies for ensuring psychological prehabilitation was sustainable in the context of limited resources were identified.
Impact on Practice: Ensuring psychology prehabilitation is considered part of standard care, may reduce stigma and improve uptake.
Conclusion: Psychological prehabilitation aids optimal preparation and recovery from AuSCT. Models of psychological prehabilitation that tailored to the individual and are sustainable while meeting AuSCT recipients’ needs are required.