Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2025

Physiologic Patient Derived 3D Spheroids for Anti-neoplastic Drug Screening to Target Cancer Stem Cells
Published on: July 5, 2019
Framing Cancer Survivors' Access to and Use and Disposal of Prescribed Opioids Within the Opioid Epidemic
Victoria K Marshall1, Melody N Chavez1, Khary K Rigg1
1University of South Florida.
Purpose:
To explore cancer survivors' access to and use and disposal of opioids in the context of the opioid epidemic.
Participants & Setting:
Community-based recruitment strategies were employed for individuals aged 18 years or older who were previously diagnosed with cancer, completed cancer treatment within the past five years, or were cancer free, and who were prescribed opioids for cancer-related pain.
Methodologic Approach:
This qualitative study used semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed using applied thematic analysis techniques.
Findings:
Themes included the following: (a) restrictive policies affecting opioid access and supply, (b) decreased opioid use because of concerns of addiction and other opioid-related side effects, and (c) lack of clarity on safeguarding and disposal of opioids.
Implications For Nursing:
Cancer survivors may encounter barriers to opioid access, alter medication-taking behavior over fear of addiction and side effects, and face inadequate education regarding proper disposal of opioids. Nurses can advocate for appropriate access to prescribed opioids, assess opioid-taking behavior, provide education regarding storage and disposal, and implement educational interventions accordingly.
Related Concept Videos
Prescription, Nonprescription and Orphan Drugs
The misuse and addiction to prescription drugs is a growing problem that can affect people of all age groups, specifically teenagers. This can happen when prescription medications are used in ways not intended by the prescriber, such as taking someone else's prescription or using medication for...
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Nursing Ethical Principles II
Consider the following scenario, which illustrates how these principles are applied in the care of Mr. John, a fifty-year-old teacher diagnosed with metastatic liver cancer.
Initially, Mr. John's...
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
Cancer Survival Analysis
Analgesia and Pain Management

