People with cancer can present with a myriad of issues that are beyond the scope of the exercise professional. It is important to screen for additional problems during your exercise rehabilitation assessment so you can refer to the appropriate disciplines within or outside your health service or practice. This may include referral to a dietitian, occupational therapist, psychologist or social worker.
Below are common screening tools used in oncology rehabilitation to identify onward referrals to other members of the multidisciplinary team:
| What to screen | What tool | Who to refer |
|---|---|---|
| Supportive Care | Distress Thermometer and Problem Checklist | Any member of the multidisciplinary team depending on which problem(s) is identified |
| Emotional Distress | PHQ-4 | Psychologist |
| Nutritional Status | Malnutrition Screening Tool | Dietician |
| Cognition | Mini-Cog | Neuropsychologist Occupational Therapist |
| Fatigue | New Energy Screening Tool | Occupational therapist Physiotherapist Exercise Physiologist Psychologist |
*NB screening tools may require licence