Journal of pain and symptom management
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Feb 2011
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyConsistency of efficacy, patient acceptability, and nasal tolerability of fentanyl pectin nasal spray compared with immediate-release morphine sulfate in breakthrough cancer pain.
We recently reported that fentanyl pectin nasal spray (FPNS) provides superior pain relief from breakthrough cancer pain (BTCP) compared with immediate-release morphine sulfate (IRMS), with significant effects by five minutes and clinically meaningful pain relief from 10 minutes postdose. ⋯ This study demonstrates that FPNS is efficacious, well accepted, and well tolerated by patients with BTCP.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Feb 2011
Multicenter Study Comparative StudyA multicenter study comparing two numerical versions of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System in palliative care patients.
The Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) is a widely used, self-report symptom intensity tool for assessing nine common symptoms in palliative care, with ratings ranging from 0 (none, best) to 10 (worst). Based on a "think-aloud" study of 20 advanced cancer patients, the ESAS was revised (ESAS-r). ⋯ The ESAS-r retains core elements of the ESAS, with improved interpretation and clarity of symptom intensity assessment. It represents the next generation of ESAS development, with further validation recommended for drowsiness, appetite, and well-being.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Feb 2011
Multicenter StudyCross-cultural application of the Korean version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 15-Palliative Care.
The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 15-Palliative Care (EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL) is a shortened version of the EORTC QLQ-C30, developed for use in advanced cancer patients. ⋯ Our findings indicate that the Korean version of the EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL is a reliable and valid instrument with regard to its psychometric properties. This tool is suitable for measuring quality of life, particularly with regard to physical aspects, in Korean cancer patients who receive palliative care.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Feb 2011
Randomized Controlled TrialThe association of depression and preferences for life-sustaining treatments in veterans with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Depressive symptoms are common among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and may modify patients' preferences for life-sustaining therapy. Examining the relationship between patient preferences for life-sustaining treatments and depressive symptoms is important for clinicians engaging in end-of-life care discussions. ⋯ Depressive history and active symptoms among veterans with severe COPD were not associated with their decisions for life-sustaining treatments. Clinicians caring for patients with COPD should understand the importance of assessing and treating patients with depressive symptoms, yet recognize that depressive symptoms may not be predictive of a patient declining life-sustaining treatments.
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J Pain Symptom Manage · Feb 2011
Additive effects of numbness and muscle aches on fatigue occurrence in individuals with HIV/AIDS who are taking antiretroviral therapy.
Muscle aches, numbness in the feet/toes (neuropathy), and fatigue are often reported concurrently and are among the symptoms most frequently reported by individuals with HIV/AIDS, whether or not they are taking antiretroviral therapy (ART). ⋯ These findings are consistent with physiological research and provide evidence that analyzing multiple symptom change over time can provide a more accurate representation of an individual's symptom experience. When evaluating patients with muscle aches or numbness, particularly when both symptoms are present, an evaluation of fatigue should be considered. Similarly, if fatigue is reported, underlying physiological assessments for neuropathic symptoms and muscle aches may be considered.