ORL-head and neck nursing : official journal of the Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head-Neck Nurses
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Patients with head and neck cancer experience significant treatment-related symptoms. Aging may predispose older patients to greater risk. ⋯ Older patients may experience more symptom burden with swallowing, voice/speech, and nutrition. Nurses need to be especially aware of and monitor for these problems.
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Historical Article
The historical role of the otorhinolarynoglogy nurse practitioner.
The role of the Nurse Practitioner (NP) in the specialty practice of Otorhinolaryngology (ORL) continues to evolve. NPs work in a collaborative practice environment integrating nursing and the medical model. ⋯ This article presents a literature review on the historical evolution of this specialty practice role. Examination of past and present roles in varied practice settings and diverse healthcare systems provide a historical perspective and the momentum necessary to chart future growth and development.
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Oral mucositis is a frequent side effect of cancer treatment and can lead to delayed treatment, reduced treatment dosage, altered nutrition, dehydration, infections, xerostomia, pain, and higher healthcare costs. Mucositis is defined as "inflammatory lesions of the oral and/or gastrointestinal tract caused by high-dose cancer therapies. Alimentary tract mucositis refers to the expression of mucosal injury across the continuum of oral and gastrointestinal mucosa, from the mouth to the anus" (Peterson, Bensadoun, & Roila, 2008, p. ii122). ⋯ Nursing documentation of oral assessment is well integrated on inpatient units. Opportunities for improvement remain in ambulatory care. Multidisciplinary team collaborations to expand evidence-based assessment and research questions generated from this work will be shared.