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Symptom burden and quality of life in patients with malignant fungating wounds
Shu-Fen Lo1, Mark Hayter, Wen-Yu Hu
1Department of Nursing, Tzu Chi College of Technology, Hualien, Taiwan.
Aim:
This study describes the relationship between symptoms and quality of life in patients with malignant fungating wounds.
Background:
Malignant fungating wounds are complex wounds that can bleed, become malodorous due to infection and are painful causing physical and psychological distress. However, there is a lack of literature on the impact that such wounds can have on quality of life.
Methods:
This was a descriptive, cross-sectional multi-centre study of patients with malignant fungating wounds. Participants were recruited from the palliative care, hospice, outpatient clinic and oncology units of three medical centres in Taiwan. Data were collected from February 2008 to August 2009. A structured questionnaire obtained socio-demographic information, medical details, wound assessment information and the Taiwanese version of the McGill quality of life questionnaire was administered by interview.
Results:
McGill quality of life scores indicated that the participants had the lowest quality of life. The participant's age, dressing change frequency, pain, wound dressing comfort, wound symptom, bleeding and malodour had statistically significant negative correlations with quality of life. Multiple regression analysis showed that age, malodour, pain issues and psychological issues explained 87% of the total variance in quality of life.
Conclusion:
This study contributes to our understanding of the impact of malignant fungating wounds and how correct assessment and management is necessary to improve quality of life. Educational intervention research is needed for patients and caregivers in countries where this has not yet been performed. Further research should also identify whether nursing competence has a direct impact on quality of life.
Insights
Patients with malignant fungating wounds experience significantly reduced quality of life. Key factors impacting quality of life include pain, malodour, and psychological distress, highlighting the need for effective symptom management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Palliative Care
- Wound Management
Background:
- Malignant fungating wounds present complex challenges including bleeding, malodour, and pain.
- These symptoms cause significant physical and psychological distress for patients.
- Limited research exists on the specific impact of these wounds on patient quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between symptoms and quality of life in patients with malignant fungating wounds.
- To identify specific wound-related factors affecting quality of life.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional, multi-centre study was conducted.
- Participants were recruited from palliative care, hospice, outpatient, and oncology units.
- Data collected via questionnaire and interview, including the Taiwanese version of the McGill Quality of Life questionnaire.
Main Results:
- Participants reported the lowest quality of life scores.
- Negative correlations were found between quality of life and age, dressing change frequency, pain, wound dressing comfort, wound symptoms, bleeding, and malodour.
- Multiple regression analysis indicated that age, malodour, pain, and psychological issues explained 87% of the variance in quality of life.
Conclusions:
- Effective assessment and management of malignant fungating wounds are crucial for improving patient quality of life.
- Further research is needed on educational interventions for patients and caregivers.
- Investigating the direct impact of nursing competence on quality of life is recommended.
