Evaluation of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy using current perception threshold and clinical evaluations.

PURPOSE: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is increasing with introduction of new and combination cancer pharmacotherapies. This study evaluated associations between clinical and self-report measurements and current perception threshold (CPT), a neuroselective measure of sensory nerve function that may detect asymptomatic CIPN damage. METHODS: Data for this secondary analysis were from a prospective, observational study using CPT to evaluate CIPN. Bivariate mixed models, accounting for the intraclass correlation between repeated patient assessments, were used to assess the relationship between CPT at each frequency (5, 250, and 2,000 Hz) and each subjective measure (Neuropathic Pain Scale, FACT-GOGntx) and objective measurement (quantitative sensory testing, deep tendon reflexes, and grip strength). RESULTS: A total of 29 chemotherapy-naïve subjects with various cancer types had a mean age of 56.7 (SD 10.4); nine subjects developed CIPN grade >1 using NCI CTC-AE criteria. Cold detection thresholds were inversely associated with CPT 5 [b(95 % CI) = -2.5(-4.5, -0.5)] and CPT 2,000 [-7.5(-11.8, -3.3)] frequencies. FACT GOG-ntx quality of life (QoL) scale and neurotoxicity and function subscales were inversely associated with CPT 2,000 [-1.8 (-3.5, -0.05), -2.2 (-4.2, -0.2), and -5.4 (-9.8, -0.9), respectively], indicating worsening QoL, impairment, and function as hypoesthesia increases. CONCLUSIONS: CPT 2,000 may identify impending worsening of patient-reported outcomes such as QoL.

Developing a professional poster: four "ps" for advanced practice nurses to consider.

Professional posters play an important role in the dissemination of knowledge and the professional development of advanced practice nurses, graduate students, and clinical faculty. Posters should be considered an integral component in communication of professional work in practice, research, and education. The invitation to submit a poster abstract is an important opportunity for clinicians and faculty alike to consider. Though sometimes misperceived as less prestigious than a podium presentation, posters add a unique element to professional and academic events. The argument is made for posters as an equal among scholarly presentation formats. The poster serves as a tremendous opportunity for collaboration between partners and a way to communicate important findings and advertise the presenters' work. For the advanced practice nurse who is a novice in presenting best practice or evidence from research trials, the poster format may be less intimidating while allowing the invaluable sharing of results. Four critical elements of professional poster development are deciding on a clear Purpose, targeting the right People, outlining key steps in the Process, and delivering a memorable Presentation. Using the "4 Ps" as cornerstones for the work of developing, preparing, and delivering the poster to an audience, the authors aim to help organize the entire process into these essential considerations. The poster, as a means of scholarly work, is a viable and essential activity, as interdisciplinary collaboration and sharing of best practice becomes the expectation for all professional development.