Aims: A formalised Leisure Activity Maintenance Program (LAMP) was commenced in March 2013 on an acute oncology ward to assist with the management of cancer related fatigue of cancer patients during their inpatient stay. The aim of this program was to provide patients with a structured, supported program that allowed them to stay active whilst undergoing medical interventions.

Methods: A review of the research literature regarding fatigue management in oncology in patient settings was conducted. In line with the NCCN Guidelines (version 1.2012) for Cancer-Related Fatigue, a program, LAMP, was developed to enable inpatients the access for general strategies for management of fatigue during the inpatient stay.

Results: Part A of the project was the implementation of the program, which looked at the feasibility of carrying out the program. During the 12 months since instigation of the programthere were 265 occasions of services provided, with a range of between five to sixteen patients referred each month. Program sessions ranged from cognitive stimulation, distraction through socialisation, off ward visits to cafes, and encouragement to stay active through participation in domestic chores.

Part B is a pilot of 10 participants, looking at the satisfaction of patients with the program, and reviewing the perceived levels of activity and leisure participation during the inpatient stay. These results are undergoing analysis.

Conclusions: This innovative program of using a therapy assistantto increase patient’s activity levels during an inpatient oncology stay is the first step in incorporating published guidelines to assist with the management of cancer related fatigue.