title: Cognitive dysfunction associated with biological response modifier therapy.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To review current knowledge regarding the cognitive dysfunction related to administration of biological response modifiers (BRMs), including assessment and nursing intervention.
  
  
  METHODS
  Published studies of cognitive dysfunction in people receiving BRMs, including research based on clinical observation and using pre- and post-treatment measures of cognitive and neurologic function.
  
  
  RESULTS
  BRM-associated cognitive dysfunction is a significant clinical problem; however, its mechanisms of action are poorly understood. Clinical observation of patients cognitive and neurologic assessment, and interventions based on presence of premonitory symptomatology are warranted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Continued research into the causes of this problem and the definition of intervention protocols is needed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Anticipatory care including assessing for early identification and family involvement in monitoring for changes, performing structured assessment of cognitive function, ensuring patient safety and reorientation, if necessary, and minimizing sleep disturbances.
authors.affiliation: Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, School of Nursing, PA.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Bender
mesh_terms: D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D007155:Immunologic Factors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D012106:Research
chemical_list: D007155:Immunologic Factors