In a pilot randomized trial of 70 oncology nurses, a theory-based digital education program significantly increased nurses' intention to support safe cannabis use in young adult cancer patients compared to a control group.
Nursing educators, oncology nursing leaders, healthcare education researchers, and cancer care program administrators.
What the researchers found
Among 70 oncology nurses randomized 1:1, 89% in the intervention group completed the full digital educational program. Intention to support safe cannabis use significantly increased in the intervention group compared to controls (p = 0.016). The intervention was grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior.
Why it matters
Young adults with cancer frequently use cannabis for symptom management, but most oncology nurses lack training to guide patients safely. This study demonstrates that targeted digital education can change clinical practice intentions, filling a critical gap in cancer care.
The numbers in context
70 nurses randomized (35 per arm). 89% intervention completion rate (31/35). 57 completed 1-month follow-up. 60% of participants over age 40. 74% held a bachelor's degree. Significant increase in intention (p = 0.016).
How the study worked
Two-arm pilot randomized controlled trial with 70 oncology nurses (35 intervention, 35 control). The intervention was a digital educational program on cannabis use in young adult (18–39) cancer patients. Outcomes measured at baseline and 1 month: knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and intention to support safe cannabis use. Analyzed with linear mixed effects models.
What this study cannot tell us
Pilot study — small sample for a definitive trial. Measured intention, not actual practice behavior change. Short follow-up (1 month). Active control group (not no-treatment). No patient outcomes measured.
How to read the evidence
Pilot randomized controlled trial with appropriate methodology, but small sample and short follow-up measuring intention rather than behavior.
When this study was published
Published 2025.
The bigger picture
As cannabis use among cancer patients increases, healthcare providers need practical training. This study shows digital education can be feasible and effective at scale, potentially reaching nurses who lack in-person training opportunities on cannabis.
Questions still open
- Would increased intention translate to actual changes in nursing practice? Could this program be adapted for other healthcare professions? Would patient outcomes improve if nurses were better trained on cannabis?
Common questions
Why do oncology nurses need cannabis training?
Could this program be used in other healthcare settings?
Read the original research
Evaluation of a Digital Educational Intervention to Enhance Oncology Nurse Professional Practice to Support Safe Cannabis Use: A Pilot Study.
The Journal of continuing education in the health professions
Citation
Vinette, Billy; Côté, José; Bilodeau, Karine. (2025). Evaluation of a Digital Educational Intervention to Enhance Oncology Nurse Professional Practice to Support Safe Cannabis Use: A Pilot Study.. The Journal of continuing education in the health professions. https://doi.org/10.1097/CEH.0000000000000631
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