Justifying radiation oncology nursing practice : a literature review

• PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To determine the scientific basis for the nursing care given to individuals undergoing radiation therapy, identify patient needs, and develop recommendations for care delivery based on these findings. DATA SOURCES: Scientific literature dating from 1993 to June 1997. Articles of recognized importance and those cited repeatedly were included, dating back to 1977. DATA SYNTHESIS: Articles included in this review investigated patient-information needs, psychosocial reactions, self-care, side effects, and sexual dysfunction. The weight of the scientific evidence varies in the included studies. CONCLUSIONS: The findings provide a foundation on which future studies can build. Additional conceptual work and resolution of methodologic issues are needed for research in this area to guide future practice. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Patients receiving radiation therapy often experience side effects and complications as a result of treatment. The scientific literature suggests that patients need information about their treatment, general emotional support, and practical help with side effects. A need exists to substantiate radiation nursing care practice using the literature and to create contemporary studies to enhance practice.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Omvårdnad (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Nursing (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

health care delivery

human

oncology

oncology nursing

professional practice

review

Sweden

Delivery of Health Care

Humans

Oncologic Nursing

Radiation Oncology

Nursing Science

Vårdvetenskap

Publikations- och innehållstyp

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