Plain Language and Health Literacy for the Oncology Family Caregiver: Examining an English/Spanish mHealth Resource

Abstract

Objectives: To explore an mHealth resource to support the limited-English-proficient cancer family caregiver.

Data sources: Structured interviews with oncology clinic providers to assess a nurse-delivered resource to support health literacy and decision-making along the cancer trajectory.

Conclusion: Limitations in communicating about oncology care with limited-English caregivers is evident. The mHealth resource examined here shows promise to improve relational health literacy between the oncology nurse and family caregiver.

Implications for nursing practice: Communicating with limited-English-proficient family caregivers invites oncology nurses to seek out resources to create shared understanding.

Keywords: family caregiver; health literacy; mHealth; plain language.