Clinical journal of oncology nursing
-
Treatment with the humanized monoclonal antibody trastuzumab can significantly improve outcomes for patients with early or metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer. In a small proportion of patients, trastuzumab is associated with an increased risk of cardiac dysfunction. Although the mechanisms have yet to be fully established, trastuzumab may block HER2 signaling in cardiomyocytes, which is believed to be important for protecting the cardiomyocytes from stress such as that induced by treatment with anthracyclines. ⋯ In addition, cardiac function must be assessed before and during the treatment period. If cardiac dysfunction occurs during treatment, early intervention can expand the possibilities of reinstitution of trastuzumab treatment. The integration of nonanthracycline adjuvant regimens offers opportunities for cardiac-compromised patients.
-
This descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted in inpatient nursing units and outpatient clinics in a cancer center in the midwestern United States. The sample of 153 healthcare providers included RNs, medical assistants, and radiology technicians. The fourth revision of the 30-item Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL R-IV) scale was used for measuring compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and burnout. ⋯ Value exists in analyzing the prevalence of burnout and compassion fatigue among oncology healthcare providers. Understanding the needs of distinct demographic groups offers valuable direction for intervention program development. Applying internal evidence in the design of a relevant stress-reduction program will better equip healthcare providers to recognize and manage compassion fatigue and burnout.
-
Family caregivers need adequate support from healthcare professionals to complete the demands associated with caregiving with minimal impact on their own health and well-being. An optimal balance of provision of care between family and support services has not been achieved; therefore, this literature review investigates how family caregivers endure and cope with the challenges of caring for an adult relative with cancer. ⋯ Even less information is available on interventions nurses can introduce to ease the caregiving burden. Improving nurses' understanding of the stressors and unmet needs associated with caregiving is fundamental to the development of effective family-focused clinical interventions.