Table 1 Summary of intervention components
Time | Content | Behaviour change technique/construct/label |
|---|---|---|
Call 0 After randomisation | Brief scene setting telephone call Introduce counsellor. Prepare for sessions and agree dates for future sessions | |
Session 1 Within first few RT treatments | Assessment of current energy state Clarify patterns, causes and impacts of fatigue Identify individual goals and concerns and the meaning of fatigue for this person’s life during RT Assess readiness to change Consider barriers to change Set three ‘SMART’ goals • Activity and sleep diaries and booklet • Education about fatigue and radiotherapy • Emotional support and encouragement | KNOWLEDGE—of antecedents and health consequences EMOTION—self-assessment of affective consequences BEHAVIOURAL REGULATION—self-monitoring of behaviour BELIEFS ABOUT CAPABILITIES—verbal persuasion to boost self-efficacy Goal setting (outcome and behaviour) Action planning (including implementation intentions |
Session 2 Week 2 of radiotherapy | Review of fatigue state Review of diary Guidance with how to manage fatigue and meet goals Prioritisation of activities Best utilisation of upcoming radiography review clinic | GOALS—review of outcome and behaviour goals BEHAVIOUR REGULATION—self-monitoring of behaviour BELIEFS ABOUT CONSEQUENCES—comparative imagining of future outcomes INTENTIONS—commitment GOALS—review of outcome goals Increased self-efficacy, control and positive mood |
Session 3 Week 3 of radiotherapy | Looking to end of treatment and beyond Weekly planner and diary review Modification of activity and goal scheduling Positivity Self-efficacy Social support | BEHAVIOUR REGULATION—self monitoring of behaviour GOALS—review behaviour goals Goal setting—outcome and behaviour goals Encourage self-monitoring and modification of goals; INTENTION—commitment Identification of ambivalent/unhelpful thoughts about end of treatment and beyond; enhancement of approach coping by adopting alternative thoughts Incremental increase in activity levels to achieve goals; normalisation after treatment OPTIMISM—verbal persuasion to boost self-efficacy EMOTION—reduce negative emotions SOCIAL INFLUENCES—social support or encouragement (general) |