Cancer Related Fatigue Research Paper

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RESEARCH Cancer-related fatigue: a review of nursing interventions Marilyn Kirshhaum Marilyn Kirsltbaum, Reader in Nursing and Health Studies, Scliool of Hiinwii and Hcaltli Sciences, University of Huddcrsfteld Email: ni.kirs]ibauni@hud.ac.\ik atigue, specifically the fatigue experienced by the person who has cancer, is a common and distressing symptom that affects between 80-90% of cancer patients (Ream and Richardson, 1999; Walsh et al 2000) and up to 99% of patients following radiotherapy or chemotherapy (Radbruch et al, 2008). It is also a persistent source of concern for the family of the affected individual, their carers and health professionals. The effects of cancer-related fatigue are multidimensional and can interfere with…show more content…
Table 2. Examples of approaches used in the management of cancer-related fatigue Exercise Nutrition and hydration Measures to promote quality sleep and rest Pharmacological agents (stimulants, glucocorticoids) Blood transfusions, erythropoietin (to treat anaemia) Energy conservation measures Attention restoring activities Antidepressants (specifically, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) Stress management Anticipatory guidance and preparatory information Acupuncture/acupressure Relaxation Diary writing Massage Aromatherapy Yoga Recommended interventions Exercise Currently, based on the substantial body of scientific evidence, moderate physical exercise (50%-90% of the estimated maximum heart rate) is deemed to be effective in reducing fatigue in breast cancer patients during and after cancer treatment (Kirshbaum, 2007). Specialist breast care nurses have demonstrated their impact on promoting exercise as a beneficial intervention to address the varied concerns of women in their care (Kirshbaum, 2008). In addition, there is growing evidence which provides a strong 216 British Journal of Community Nursing Vol 15, No…show more content…
It is challenging to manage because of its complex, multidimensional nature. An individual, empowering and holistic approach is recommended that includes recognition and discussion of the symptoms, its probable causes and possible management approaches. Research evidence is still required to provide stronger support and credibility to a wide range of interventions. BJCN Aaronson NK.AIiinedzai S. Bergman 11 ct al (1993) The Buropean Organizarion for Research and Treatment of Cancer QI.Q-C^OrA quality of hfe instrument for use in international clinical trials in oncology.Joiíríííi/ ofltw Niitioiitjl Cancer Institute 85: 365-76 Barsevick AM, Dudley W, Beck S, Sweeney C, Whitnier K, Nail U (20(14) A randomised clinical trial of energy conservation for patients with cancer-related fatigue. Cii/iOT 100: 1302-10 Bardey S, Chute E (1947) F(itii>ite and ïmpinriimti in A/ÍIM. McCraw Hill. New York Bower JE, Ganz l'A, Desmond KA, Bernaards C, Kowlaiid JH, Meyerowitz BE, BelinTR (2006) Fatigue in long-term breast carcinoma stirvivors: :i longittidinal investigation. Cancer 106(4): 18-24 Cameron C (1973) ATheory of Fatigue. Izr^ononiics 16:

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