Clinical journal of oncology nursing
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Neuropathic side effects are commonly reported in patients receiving oxaliplatin, but little is known about the characteristics of peripheral neuropathy in this patient population. The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the prevalence of neuropathic symptoms in patients with colorectal cancer receiving oxaliplatin as well as to explore symptom severity, distress, frequency, and neuropathic interference with activities. Thirty-three patients receiving oxaliplatin at two outpatient facilities completed the Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Assessment Tool. ⋯ Trouble with balance, muscle or joint aches, and neuropathic pain were the most distressing symptoms, and numbness in the fingers and hands and in the toes and feet were the most frequent symptoms. Patients reported that neuropathic symptoms interfered with numerous activities. Oncology nurses can use this information to help educate patients and families about potential side effects of oxaliplatin and to coordinate the care of patients with peripheral neuropathy using a symptom-focused, multidisciplinary approach.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Clinical Trial
Assessing dyspnea in patients with non-small cell lung cancer in the acute care setting.
Dyspnea is a common and often overlooked symptom in patients with lung cancer. Oncology nurses are positioned to promptly assess, triage, and intervene to minimize dyspnea, but improved assessment is needed. As a result, this pilot study explores the validity and feasibility of two assessment scales on measuring the perception of dyspnea in patients with non-small cell lung cancer in the acute care setting.