Symptom management among patients with head and neck carcinoma undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy
Keywords:
head and neck cancer patients, symptom management, chemoradiotherapyAbstract
Objectives This research to study the management of oral pain, xerostomia and dysphagia in patients with head and neck carcinoma undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy.
Methods This study was descriptive research design using the Symptom Management Theory as a conceptual framework. Participants were 137 patients with head and neck cancer undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy at the Radiotherapy Unit of Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital.These participants were purposively selected.Two instruments were used for collecting data,those were the General Data Record form, and the Symptoms Management of oral pain, xerostomia and dysphagia Interview form of patients with head and neck cancer undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy.
Results The participants applied several methods for oral pain, which were managed by fluid intake, oral rinses, consuming watery, soft and digestible foods, avoiding alcohol or beer and avoiding smoking. The management strategies for xerostomia were; fluid intake, avoiding smoking, oral rinses, consuming soft watery foods, and sipping water. The management approaches for dysphagia were; dietary management including consuming soft foods and easily chewable foods, eating more frequently and smaller meals, fluid intake during meals, using oral nutrition support, and swallowing exercises.
Conclusions The results of this research could provide basic information for nurses and health professionals and used as a guidance for appropriately and efficiently care plan or recommend management strategies for oral pain, xerostomia and dysphagia in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy.
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