Clinical journal of oncology nursing
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Any patient receiving an agent that targets microtubules (e.g., taxanes, vinca alkaloids, epothilones) is at some risk for encountering peripheral neuropathy. This article provides tools and discussion to aid nurses in managing peripheral neuropathy in their patients through early identification and education. Some patients are at higher risk than others based on their chemotherapeutic regimen, pretreatment history, and comorbidities. ⋯ Patients who experience moderate or severe neuropathy may require a dose reduction or delay until symptoms resolve; these patients may need a lower dose for the next treatment cycle. No known agents have proven to prevent or treat severe neuropathy more effectively than regular neurologic examinations, early intervention, and patient education. In this respect, nurses can make a substantial difference in the impact of neuropathy on treatment efficacy and patients' quality of life.
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Transdermal medication delivery systems provide systemic therapy by passive diffusion through the skin. They offer an alternative route of medication administration and may be well suited for patients who are unable to take or retain oral medications. ⋯ As with all transdermal medications, safety considerations exist with respect to storing, handling, applying, and disposing of the granisetron transdermal system. Oncology nurses should be aware of new developments in the management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and knowledgeable about transdermal medication delivery.