Cancer-related fatigue: a review of nursing interventions.
Fatigue is a common and distressing symptom that is a concern for cancer patients, their families, carers and health professionals. Cancer-related fatigue is a multidimensional phenomenon that is self-perceived and includes physical, emotional, cognitive and behavioural components. It can be unrelenting, disrupts daily life, fosters helplessness and may culminate in despair. The many causes of cancer-related fatigue stem from the disease itself, the cancer treatments and their side effects. The conclusion from a recent critical review of research evidence is that physical exercise and the treatment of underlying problems, such as anaemia or clinical depression, are effective interventions. However, a wide range of practical interventions and complementary therapies are likely to be helpful such as: acupressure and acupuncture, stress management and relaxation, energy conservation measures, anticipatory guidance and preparatory information, and attention-restoring activities. This article will provide a comprehensive review of current knowledge surrounding cancer-related fatigue and the nursing interventions that can be implemented in community practice.
Kirshbaum
Marilyn
M
School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield. m.kirshbaum@hud.ac.uk
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D005221:Fatigue / Q000209:etiology* / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D006380:Helplessness, Learned; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D010465:Perception; D012649:Self Concept