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Sleep-Wake Disturbances in Oncology
Kristi A Acker1, Patricia Carter2
1Capstone College of Nursing, University of Alabama, Office 3029, Box 870358, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA.
Abstract:
Sleep-wake disturbances are common in patients with cancer. Despite the high prevalence of altered sleep patterns in oncology settings, there remains a gap in consistent assessment of sleep, leading to an underrecognized and undertreated condition. Provider failure in addressing sleep-wake disturbances can result in chronic issues with insomnia and has a negative impact on quality of life and cancer survivorship. Often sleep-wake disturbances present in symptom "clusters" including, anxiety, depression, and fatigue, which adds to the complexity of managing sleep disorders in oncology. Aggressive management strategies for managing underlying symptom burden from disease or medications effects is a priority.
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