Peripheral neuropathy related to chemotherapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology Nursing
• Neurology
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common and often debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.
• Effective prevention and intervention strategies are crucial for maintaining patient quality of life during chemotherapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive review of the existing evidence for preventing and intervening in chemotherapy-induced PN.
• To identify gaps in the literature regarding nursing-sensitive outcomes and interventions for PN.

Main Methods:

• A review of the medical and nursing literature was performed.
• Focus on evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and studies examining nursing interventions.

Main Results:

• Limited high-quality evidence exists for many reported positive findings, with a lack of validation in large prospective RCTs.
• Xaliproden demonstrated efficacy in reducing grade 3 PN in specific regimens; dose modification is also supported.
• Significant gaps were identified in studies focusing on nurse-led assessment and intervention strategies for PN.

Conclusions:

• Nurses require updated knowledge on the evidence, or lack thereof, for PN prevention and management strategies.
• Further research is needed, particularly well-designed intervention studies focusing on exercise, patient education, and self-care for PN.
• Nurses play a vital role in evaluating intervention effectiveness and advancing the science of PN management.