Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia
Corso di laurea in infermieristica - Sede di Modena
| Thesis Title | Cancer-related fatigue: nurse's role to define, measure and manage a multidimensional phenomenon |
|---|---|
| Name | Centola Erka |
| Supervisor(s) | Cinque Giuseppina |
| Academic Year | 2016/17 |
| Thesis type | Non research thesis |
Abstract
Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common distressing symptoms experienced by patients with cancer. It can exacerbate the experience of other symptoms, negatively affect mood, interfere with the ability to carry out everyday activities and negatively impact quality of life. The purpose of this work is to analyze this phenomenon through a review of literature, determining the role of nurses in order to define, measure and manage fatigue, using NNN (NANDA, NOC, NIC) taxonomy. Comparing everal studies, it appears that cancer-related fatigue is a multidimensional phenomenon that is self-perceived and includes physical, cognitive, behavioral,
psychosocial and economic/occupational components. Given its subjective and multidimensional nature, it requires a holistic and individual approach that includes recognition and discussion of the symptoms, its probable causes and possible management. Although there is currently no gold standard for treating fatigue, current literature suggests that regular assessment, education and appropriate treatments are important in managing this distressing symptom and in helping to decrease cancer-related fatigue, depression and consequently improve quality of life.