State of the science: hot flashes and cancer. Part 2: management and future directions.
OBJECTIVE
To critically evaluate and synthesize intervention research related to hot flashes in the context of cancer and to identify implications and future directions for policy, research, and practice.


METHODS
Published, peer-reviewed articles and textbooks; editorials; and computerized databases.


RESULTS
Although a variety of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments are available, they may not be appropriate or effective for all individuals.


CONCLUSIONS
The large and diverse evidence base and current national attention on hot flash treatment highlight the importance of the symptom to healthcare professionals, including oncology nurses.


CONCLUSIONS
Using existing research to understand, assess, and manage hot flashes in the context of cancer can prevent patient discomfort and improve the delivery of evidence-based care.
Carpenter
Janet S
JS
School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, USA. carpentj@iupui.edu
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001533:Belladonna Alkaloids; D031885:Cimicifuga; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000379:methods; D000529:Complementary Therapies / Q000379:methods; D004338:Drug Combinations; D004347:Drug Interactions; D004879:Ergotamines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D019584:Hot Flashes / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D020902:Hypericum; D008297:Male; D008784:Methysergide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy*; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010634:Phenobarbital / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011372:Progestins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013025:Glycine max; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014810:Vitamin E / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D001533:Belladonna Alkaloids; D004338:Drug Combinations; D004879:Ergotamines; D008784:Methysergide; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D010634:Phenobarbital; D011372:Progestins; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; D014810:Vitamin E; C044435:belladonna alkaloid, ergotamine, phenobarbital drug combination