Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: challenges and opportunities for improved patient outcomes

Oncology nurses play a pivotal role in the care of patients receiving chemotherapy and are in a prime position to facilitate better care of patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). However, to do so, they must be kept well apprised of the most recent guidelines, the latest developments in CINV therapy, and the expanding knowledge of CINV pathophysiology. In April 2008, a roundtable meeting of experts in the field of CINV was convened after a detailed needs assessment revealed a knowledge gap in CINV management on the part of oncology nurses. The review found that many practitioners significantly underestimated the occurrence of CINV (particularly of delayed symptoms), and others failed to implement evidence-based guidelines. Presentations included CINV pathophysiology, the significance of CINV prophylaxis, evidence-based guidelines, current treatment options and future therapies, practical nursing considerations in CINV, and CINV learning gaps among oncology nurses, with the topics then discussed by the panel at large.