A Review and Conceptual Analysis of Cancer Pain Self-Management.

OBJECTIVES: In this concept analysis article, we will clarify the concept "self-management of cancer pain" by identifying related antecedents, attributes, and consequences to further refine the conceptual and operational definitions of the concept. DESIGN: A review was conducted. REVIEW/ANALYSIS METHODS: The Walker and Avant method was used for this concept analysis. DATA SOURCES: CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycInfo were searched systemically.A total of eight studies on "self-management of cancer pain or self-care of cancer pain" published between 2004 and 2019 were identified. RESULTS: Attributes for self-management of cancer pain include self-efficacy, integration of methods for pain relief into daily life, decision-making related to pain management, process for solving pain-related issues, and initiation of interactions with healthcare professionals. Antecedents include knowledge regarding pain assessment and management, cognitive abilities, motivation, undergoing pain treatment, patient education and counseling, social support, and accountability from all parties involved. Consequences include pain control, improved quality of life, and increased opioid intake. CONCLUSIONS: Self-management of cancer pain was reported to be a self-regulation process with the aim to encourage patients to use skills attained through development of self-efficacy, so they can actively participate in their pain management. This outcome may enhance their quality of life by decreasing their pain, depression, and anxiety and increasing the availability of social support.

An Integrative Review of Sex Differences in Quality of Life and Symptoms Among Survivors of Hematologic Malignancies.

OBJECTIVES: To conduct an integrative review of studies to identify disparities in quality of life (QOL), symptoms, and symptom burden between men and women diagnosed with hematologic malignancies. SAMPLE & SETTING: 11 studies comprising 13,546 participants aged 18 years or older were included in the analysis. Studies were original peer-reviewed research published in English between January 2005 and December 2020. METHODS & VARIABLES: A literature search was performed using keywords associated with health-related QOL, hematologic malignancy, and sex/gender differences. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed to identify relevant studies. Data were extracted for sex differences in QOL, symptoms, and symptom burden. All studies were appraised for quality and level of evidence. RESULTS: Women have worse physical health and function, more pain, and higher symptom burden compared with men. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Healthcare providers need to understand the impact of sex-based differences on QOL, symptoms, and symptom burden to provide optimal, personalized care.