The Impact of Pain on Mobility in Patients with Cancer.

OBJECTIVES: Provide an overview of how pain impacts mobility in patients with cancer. METHODS: A literature search was conducted in PubMed and on Google Scholar using search terms, cancer pain with mobility, acute and chronic pain syndromes, enhanced recovery after surgery, nursing care, and rehabilitation. Peer-reviewed research studies, review articles, and pain guidelines and position papers were reviewed to provide an overview on cancer pain, its impact on mobility, and the nurse's role in managing pain and optimizing mobility and functional outcomes. RESULTS: Firty-two references were included in this overview. This body of literature is replete with studies on the management of pain; however, the tie between pain and mobility has not been well described aside from the breakthrough pain literature. This manuscript weaves these two important concepts together to better inform nurses and other clinicians regarding the importance of managing pain to even begin mobilizing patients, especially following surgery and for other painful conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Oncology nurses play an integral role in assessing and managing cancer pain. It is important for nurses to recognize how their pain management interventions lead to improved mobility and functioning in patients with cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses comprise the largest workforce around the globe and are well-equipped to assess and manage cancer pain in all cancer care settings. As leaders within the healthcare team, making recommendations to better control pain and communicating with other team members regarding the pain plan is essential in improving mobility in patients with cancer.

Clinical Updates in Mucositis-Related Symptom Management.

OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview with the most up-to-date evidence on the management of cancer-treatment related mucositis. DATA SOURCES: Peer-reviewed articles, textbooks, and the internet. CONCLUSION: A multitude of new and innovative treatments for the management of mucositis exist. Mucositis guidelines have changed to reflect the current evidence, but more research is needed on emerging modalities. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Oncology nurses have a primary role in the assessment and early identification of mucositis. Educating patients and recommending evidence-based guidelines is paramount in preventing and ameliorating this challenging side effect of treatment.