[Nursing care of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy]

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse event occurring in patients who receive neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents such as taxanes, platinum, and vinca alkaloids. The manifestations of CIPN include intolerable symmetric numbness, burning and tingling in distal limbs, disruption of daily functions, reduced quality of life, and the reduction in dosage or discontinued use of these agents. There is a paucity of articles on nursing care related to CIPN in the literature. This article reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, medical management and nursing care of CIPN. Review findings are intended to help nurses identify high-risk groups in order to implement preventive measures that strengthen the muscles, train the balance, and initiate falling precautions of persons in this population. Timely preventive measures may effectively alleviate CIPN symptoms and assure the safety and overall quality of life of patients.