Clinical journal of oncology nursing
-
Following approval of the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009, biosimilars are gradually entering the market in the United States. With the introduction of more biosimilars into the marketplace, all healthcare providers should be familiar with the approval and evaluation process, the naming convention applied to these agents, and the importance of accurate pharmacovigilance. ⋯ Healthcare providers involved in the dispensing and administration of biosimilar and interchangeable biologics need to be continually educated to ensure confidence, familiarity, and accuracy with the processes surrounding biosimilars.
-
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), including gastroenteropancreatic NETs, or GEP-NETs, are heterogenous tumors that arise from diffuse neuroendocrine cells and other organs, such as the lung, ovary, and thyroid. Lutetium Lu 177 dotatate (Lutathera®) is a newly approved targeted therapy for patients with advanced GEP-NETs. Patients treated with octreotide long-acting release may be candidates for this second-line therapy. This article discusses lutetium Lu 177 dotatate therapy administration and patient care considerations.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Aromatherapy: The Effect of Lavender on Anxiety and Sleep Quality in Patients Treated With Chemotherapy
A cancer diagnosis is a serious stressor that is associated with anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and inability to fulfill daily routines. Many pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options are available to help patients with cancer manage anxiety. ⋯ State anxiety before and after chemotherapy did not vary among groups. The authors compared trait anxiety values before and after chemotherapy and found a significant difference in the lavender group. In addition, a significant change in PSQI measurements before and after chemotherapy was observed.
-
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the most common smoking-related illness. COPD often is underemphasized as a comorbidity except when considering issues surrounding surgical treatment options. ⋯ The added burden of dyspnea, fatigue, and psychological distress related to COPD may affect the overall outcome and quality of life (QOL) of patients with lung cancer. Attention to the prevention, assessment, and treatment of lung cancer and COPD and related symptomatology will help maximize patients' QOL.
-
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is legal either medicinally or recreationally in 29 states and the District of Columbia, with a majority of the U.S. adult population now living in states where cannabis is legal for medicinal use. As an advocate for patient autonomy and informed choice, the oncology nurse has an ethical responsibility to educate patients about and support their use of cannabis for palliation. . ⋯ The oncology nurse can play a pivotal role in supporting patients' use of cannabis for palliation.