Embedding an Education Intervention about Shared Decision Making into an RCT: Ensuring competency and fidelity

Objective

To describe the outcomes of training nephrology clinicians and clinical research participants, to use the Best Case/Worst Case Communication intervention, for discussions about dialysis initiation for patients with life-limiting illness, during a randomized clinical trial to ensure competency, fidelity to the intervention, and adherence to study protocols and the intervention throughout the trial.

Methods

We enrolled 68 nephrologists at ten study sites and randomized them to receive training or wait-list control. We collected copies of completed graphic aids (component of the intervention), used with study-enrolled patients, to measure fidelity and adherence.

Results

We trained 34 of 36 nephrologists to competence and 27 completed the entire program. We received 60 graphic aids for study-enrolled patients for a 73% return rate in the intervention arm. The intervention fidelity score for the graphic aid reflected completion of all elements throughout the study.

Conclusion

We successfully taught the Best Case/Worst Case Communication intervention to clinicians as research participants within a randomized clinical trial.

Innovation

Decisions about dialysis are an opportunity to discuss prognosis and uncertainty in relation to consideration of prolonged life supporting therapy. Our study reveals a strategy to evaluate adherence to a communication intervention in real time during a clinical study.

Best Case/Worst Case: protocol for a multisite randomised clinical trial of a scenario planning intervention for patients with kidney failure

INTRODUCTION

Given the burdens of treatment and poor prognosis, older adults with kidney failure would benefit from improved decision making and palliative care to clarify goals, address symptoms, and reduce unwanted procedures. Best Case/Worst Case (BC/WC) is a communication tool that uses scenario planning to support patients' decision making. This article describes the protocol for a multisite, cluster randomised trial to test the effect of training nephrologists to use the BC/WC communication tool on patient receipt of palliative care, and quality of life and communication.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We are enrolling attending nephrologists, at 10 study sites in the USA, who see outpatients with advanced chronic kidney disease considering dialysis. We aim to enrol 320 patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of ≤24 mL/min/1.73 m² who are age 60 and older and have a predicted survival of 18 months or less. Nephrologists will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to receive training to use the communication tool (intervention) at study initiation or after study completion (wait-list control). Patients in the intervention group will receive care from a nephrologist trained to use the BC/WC communication tool. Patients in the control group will receive usual care. Using chart review and surveys of patients and caregivers, we will test the efficacy of the BC/WC intervention with receipt of palliative care as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include intensity of treatment at the end of life, the effect of the intervention on quality of communication (QOC) between nephrologists and patients (using the QOC scale), the change in quality of life (using the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Palliative Care scale) and receipt of dialysis.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Approvals have been granted by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Wisconsin (ID: 2022-0193), with each study site ceding review to the primary IRB. All nephrologists will be consented and given a copy of the consent form. No patients or caregivers will be recruited or consented until their nephrology provider has chosen to participate in the study. Results will be disseminated via submission for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and at national meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04466865.

Stakeholder evaluation of a supportive care needs assessment tool for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors

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Background: The survivorship needs of Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) with cancer are complex and differ from other age groups. Evidence suggests that AYA cancer survivors are unaware of and underutilize supportive care services both during and after treatment. Recently, the Needs Assessment & Service Bridge (NA-SB) tool was developed to screen AYAs’ survivorship needs and facilitate delivery of appropriate services. We engaged a stakeholder group of YA cancer survivors from the Midwest United States to provide feedback regarding NA-SB content and administration. Methods: We used a descriptive focus group design. We recruited 10 YA cancer survivors, aged 20-38, of diverse sex, race, rural/urban residence, and on/off active therapy. We held five 90-minute virtual stakeholder group meetings. Before the first meeting, stakeholders reviewed the 57 NA-SB items. The PI and a trained facilitator co-led the meetings, asking participants about the utility of the NA-SB, item content, response options, and administration. Meetings were recorded and transcripts were analyzed deductively, organizing comments by the 9 NA-SB domains. Results: Stakeholders endorsed all original NA-SB items, modified 4 items, and identified 18 new items (Table). Stakeholders recommended that YA patients initially complete the NA-SB in-person shortly after treatment begins, and again electronically at clinical milestones. They suggested using a screening question for each domain, allowing patients to skip items not relevant for them. Conclusions: The stakeholder-engaged process resulted in a modified NA-SB and recommendations for administration that reflect the needs of our Midwestern YA cancer survivor population. Prior to implementation, we will integrate recommendations from clinician experts and align available resources with NA-SB domains.[Table: see text]

Guideline-Recommended Symptom Management Strategies That Cross Over Two or More Cancer Symptoms

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

Patients with cancer experience multiple symptoms, but current practice is driven by guidelines that address single symptoms. Identifying symptom management strategies recommended across two or more symptoms could relieve multiple symptoms and reduce patient burden.

LITERATURE SEARCH

The Oncology Nursing Society, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, and American Society of Clinical Oncology websites were searched to identify management guidelines for 15 symptoms.

DATA EVALUATION

The authors extracted symptom management strategies and recommendations. Recommendations were synthesized by symptom across the guidelines, and recommended strategies were compared across symptoms.

SYNTHESIS

Among 32 guidelines reviewed, a total of 88 symptom management strategies (41 pharmacologic, 47 nonpharmacologic) were recommended across two or more symptoms.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Findings support the potential for coordinated selection of symptom management strategies that cross over multiple symptoms in a patient. Investigators should test these symptom management strategies in the context of co-occurring symptoms and develop guidelines that address multiple symptoms.

Characteristics of Cancer Symptom Clusters Reported through a Patient-Centered Symptom Cluster Assessment

In the scope of symptom cluster research, few investigators have obtained patients' perceptions of their symptom clusters, even though this information is central to designing effective interventions. In this cross-sectional study, 38 adults with cancer completed measures of demographics, health outcomes (functional status, well-being, quality of life) and a symptom cluster assessment that captured symptom occurrence, severity, distress, clustering, a priority cluster, causal attributions, duration, directional relationships, and cluster interference with daily life. Participants described 72 distinct symptom clusters. Symptoms were most frequently attributed to the cancer diagnosis. Participants' priority symptom cluster typically included two symptoms of continuous duration and one intermittent symptom. Temporal order and direction of symptom relationships varied, with 75 different relationships described among symptom pairs. Greater symptom cluster burden and interference were related to poorer health outcomes. This patient-centered view of symptom clusters revealed substantial variability in symptom cluster characteristics with important implications for symptom management.

Abstract PS9-25: Receipt of preventive care and health promotion in a cohort of early stage breast cancer survivors

Introduction: Prior studies have demonstrated that breast cancer survivors are less likely to receive primary care preventive services than non-cancer patients. However, even recent studies have largely assessed survivors diagnosed over a decade ago. Further, studies have not considered patient receipt of health promotion guidance, critical to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We examined the receipt of preventive care and health promotion in a modern cohort of early stage breast cancer survivors seen within our breast program. Methods: A cross-sectional cohort of women with a history of stage I/II, hormone receptor +, HER2neu- breast cancer within 5 years from diagnosis who did not receive chemotherapy were consented (n=101). Survivors completed a survey evaluating aspects of survivorship, including provider discussions regarding health promotion. Electronic medical record (EMR) abstraction captured receipt of preventive care (see Table). We excluded survivors with a primary care provider outside our health care system to ensure complete capture of screening (n=36). Results: Our final cohort (n=62) was a median 2 years from diagnosis (range 0.5-5 years) and a median age of 61 years (range 30-84). Most were stage I (73%) and white (95%). The majority of survivors received preventive care (Table). Survivors were less likely to report health promotion guidance from their provider, including: discussing “things you could do to improve your health” (66%), getting “help you wanted to make changes in your habits” (52%), discussing “how much or what kinds of food you eat” (24%), and “how much or what kind of exercise” (42%). Conclusion: In a modern cohort of early stage breast cancer survivors from a single breast center homed within our health care system, documented receipt of preventive care was high (≥75%). These high rates may reflect the implementation of EMRs (which could facilitate care coordination and provide best practice alerts), participation of our health system in state-wide quality improvement programs, and/or heightened awareness of the importance of preventive care by oncology providers. However, survivors perceive limited discussions surrounding health promotion, presenting an opportunity to improve survivorship care.

Table. Summary of Receipt of Preventive Care for Early Stage Breast Cancer SurvivorsRecommended Preventive Care ServicesDefinition of ReceiptProportion of Eligible PatientsInfluenza vaccineAny since diagnosis*76% (44/58)Pneumococcal vaccineIf >65 yo, any since diagnosis*93% (38/41)Lipid screeningAny within 5 years84% (52/62)Colorectal cancer screeningIf >50 yo, colonoscopy within 10 years, cologuard within 5 years, fecal occult test within 1 year77% (37/48)Cervical cancer screeningIf cervix present and <65 yo, within 5 years79% (27/34)Mammogram screeningIf breast tissue present, annual100% (56/56)*if <1 year from diagnosis, ineligible for this metric

Citation Format: Jessica R. Schumacher, James E Haine, Amye J Tevaarwerk, Kristine L Kwekkeboom, Trista J Stankowski-Drengler, Catherine R. Breuer, Jennifer L Tucholka, Courtney Maxcy, Maureen A Smith, Heather B. Neuman. Receipt of preventive care and health promotion in a cohort of early stage breast cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2020 San Antonio Breast Cancer Virtual Symposium; 2020 Dec 8-11; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS9-25.

Biopsychosocial characteristics associated with engagement in art making among older adults

In order to design patient-centered art making interventions for health and well-being, investigators need to understand the population of interest regarding their relationship to engagement in art making activities. This study, therefore, aimed to examine older adults' characteristics that were associated with engagement in art making activities, and to provide practical examples of how to use the identified characteristics. We conducted correlation analyses to evaluate such associations, using cross-sectional survey data from the 2014 Health and Retirement Study (n=731). Female sex, higher education, personality traits, positive attitude toward the arts, and a larger social network size were positively associated with engagement in art making activities (p<.05). Males and those with lower education could be targeted, while the type of art making activity could be tailored based on personality traits for patient-centered art making interventions. Future studies can use this information to empirically study art making interventions for older adults.

A Feasibility Study of an Uncertainty Management Intervention for Patient-Partner Dyads Experiencing Breast Cancer

OBJECTIVES

To examine the feasibility, acceptability, and effects of a dyad-based uncertainty management intervention for breast cancer, including tailored information and coping skills training.

SAMPLE & SETTING

16 patient-partner dyads experiencing breast cancer were enrolled from a midwestern comprehensive cancer center.

METHODS & VARIABLES

A single-group pre-/post-test design was used, and descriptive statistics and Cohen's d were calculated. Measures were completed before the intervention and during each treatment cycle. Feasibility, acceptability, fidelity, uptake, and outcome variables (uncertainty, dyadic coping, family functioning) were included.

RESULTS

16 dyads were enrolled during a 13-month period; 15 dyads completed the training for the study, and 13 dyads completed all study activities. Overall, participants reported satisfaction with the intervention. Small to medium effect sizes were observed across the outcomes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

This study highlights the need for nurses to help couples manage uncertainty related to new cancer treatment. Tailored interventions can allow nurses to use their time efficiently by focusing on individuals' actual needs.

How does art making work? Testing the hypothesized mechanisms of art making on pain experience

BACKGROUND

Pain is a multidimensional experience that requires a holistic pain management approach. Art making, a holistic, mind-body-spirit approach, has been used as a pain management strategy. Although findings of empirical studies point toward several potential mechanisms through which art making activity may affect the pain experience, these mechanisms have not yet been tested. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate whether perceived control, self-efficacy, spirituality, and mood mediate the effect of art making activity on pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study is a secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data collected in 2014 for the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Data from a national sample of 731 adults, 50 years of age or older were analyzed for the current study. Participants completed a health survey which included measures of art engagement (representing 'effect of art making' in this study), pain severity and interference, and proposed mediating variables (e.g., perceived control, self-efficacy, spirituality and mood). The joint significance test was used to test hypothesized mediation.

RESULT

We found that positive mood mediated the effects of art engagement on pain, but perceived control, self-efficacy, spirituality, and negative mood did not. Engagement in art making activity was associated with more positive mood (β = 0.213, p = .001). In turn, greater positive mood was associated with lower pain severity (β = -.147, p = .010) and pain interference (β = -.519, p = .034).

CONCLUSION

Results of this study provide preliminary evidence that engagement in art making activity impacts pain experience by enhancing positive mood. A large prospective study examining the hypothesized mediating relationship is necessary to confirm our findings.

A randomized clinical trial of TrialTALK, a communication tool to facilitate treatment-related shared decision making

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Background: Cancer treatment decision making involves timely, high-risk, life altering shared decision-making conversations between patients, their families, and their oncologists. As such, these conversations are a prime target for a carefully designed, easy to interpret approach to facilitate preference-sensitive decision making. Patients need several important pieces of information delivered in a way that is easy to interpret. The TrialTALK approach has two core elements: a verbal approach and a pen and paper (P&P) diagram. The P&P diagram includes the diagnosis with prognostic implications, all available treatment options including best supportive care alone, estimates for efficacy, and anticipated impact on daily life. The verbal conversation corresponds to the diagram and includes a phrase to encourage deliberation, and empathic responses. Our trial is evaluating the effectiveness of TrialTALK to influence decision making, in particular clinical trial participation. Here, we report the results of the initial oncologist training. Methods: 28 oncologists volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to control (Group A, n=13) or intervention (Group B, n=15). Oncologists in the intervention group each received two hours of training, including simulated conversations with feedback and optional 1:1 follow up for troubleshooting. At the conclusion of training, oncologists completed a video-recorded simulated encounter with an actor. Trainers reviewed P&P diagrams in real time and provided feedback. Results: We used a fidelity checklist to assess effectiveness of the training. We considered ≥ 14 points out of a possible 20 as an acceptable use of TrialTALK. The average score was 14.8 ± 2. Scores ranged 10-18. 12 of 15 intervention oncologists demonstrated adoption of the tool after 2 hours of training. Conclusions: Oncologist can effectively learn to use TrialTALK. The ongoing study will estimate preliminary efficacy of the TrialTALK intervention in regards to patient decision making and participation in clinical trials.

The Role of Inflammation in the Pain, Fatigue, and Sleep Disturbance Symptom Cluster in Advanced Cancer

CONTEXT

Symptom researchers have proposed a model of inflammatory cytokine activity and dysregulation in cancer to explain co-occurring symptoms including pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance.

OBJECTIVES

We tested the hypothesis that psychological stress accentuates inflammation and that stress and inflammation contribute to one's experience of the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster (symptom cluster severity, symptom cluster distress) and its impact (symptom cluster interference with daily life, quality of life).

METHODS

We used baseline data from a symptom cluster management trial. Adult participants (N = 158) receiving chemotherapy for advanced cancer reported pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance on enrollment. Before intervention, participants completed measures of demographics, perceived stress, symptom cluster severity, symptom cluster distress, symptom cluster interference with daily life, and quality of life and provided a blood sample for four inflammatory biomarkers (interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C-reactive protein).

RESULTS

Stress was not directly related to any inflammatory biomarker. Stress and tumor necrosis factor-α were positively related to symptom cluster distress, although not symptom cluster severity. Tumor necrosis factor-α was indirectly related to symptom cluster interference with daily life, through its effect on symptom cluster distress. Stress was positively associated with symptom cluster interference with daily life and inversely with quality of life. Stress also had indirect effects on symptom cluster interference with daily life, through its effect on symptom cluster distress.

CONCLUSION

The proposed inflammatory model of symptoms was partially supported. Investigators should test interventions that target stress as a contributing factor in co-occurring pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance and explore other factors that may influence inflammatory biomarker levels within the context of an advanced cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms-Based Phenotypes Among Women With Dysmenorrhea: A Latent Class Analysis

Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent and may increase women's risk for developing other chronic pain conditions. Although it is highly variable, symptom-based dysmenorrhea phenotypes have not been identified. The aims of the study were to identify symptom-based dysmenorrhea phenotypes and examine their relationships with demographic and clinical characteristics. In a cross-sectional study, 762 women with dysmenorrhea rated severity of 14 dysmenorrhea-related symptoms. Using latent class analysis, we identified three distinctive phenotypes. Women in the "mild localized pain" phenotype ( n = 202, 26.51%) had mild abdominal cramps and dull abdominal pain/discomfort. Women in the "severe localized pain" phenotype ( n = 412, 54.07%) had severe abdominal cramps. Women in the "multiple severe symptoms" phenotype ( n = 148, 19.42%) had severe pain at multiple locations and multiple gastrointestinal symptoms. Race, ethnicity, age, and comorbid chronic pain conditions were significantly associated with phenotypes. Identification of these symptom-based phenotypes provides a foundation for research examining genotype-phenotype associations, etiologic mechanisms, and/or variability in treatment responses.

A Framework to Improve Surgeon Communication in High-Stakes Surgical Decisions: Best Case/Worst Case

Importance

Although many older adults prefer to avoid burdensome interventions with limited ability to preserve their functional status, aggressive treatments, including surgery, are common near the end of life. Shared decision making is critical to achieve value-concordant treatment decisions and minimize unwanted care. However, communication in the acute inpatient setting is challenging.

Objective

To evaluate the proof of concept of an intervention to teach surgeons to use the Best Case/Worst Case framework as a strategy to change surgeon communication and promote shared decision making during high-stakes surgical decisions.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Our prospective pre-post study was conducted from June 2014 to August 2015, and data were analyzed using a mixed methods approach. The data were drawn from decision-making conversations between 32 older inpatients with an acute nonemergent surgical problem, 30 family members, and 25 surgeons at 1 tertiary care hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.

Interventions

A 2-hour training session to teach each study-enrolled surgeon to use the Best Case/Worst Case communication framework.

Main Outcomes and Measures

We scored conversation transcripts using OPTION 5, an observer measure of shared decision making, and used qualitative content analysis to characterize patterns in conversation structure, description of outcomes, and deliberation over treatment alternatives.

Results

The study participants were patients aged 68 to 95 years (n = 32), 44% of whom had 5 or more comorbid conditions; family members of patients (n = 30); and surgeons (n = 17). The median OPTION 5 score improved from 41 preintervention (interquartile range, 26-66) to 74 after Best Case/Worst Case training (interquartile range, 60-81). Before training, surgeons described the patient's problem in conjunction with an operative solution, directed deliberation over options, listed discrete procedural risks, and did not integrate preferences into a treatment recommendation. After training, surgeons using Best Case/Worst Case clearly presented a choice between treatments, described a range of postoperative trajectories including functional decline, and involved patients and families in deliberation.

Conclusions and Relevance

Using the Best Case/Worst Case framework changed surgeon communication by shifting the focus of decision-making conversations from an isolated surgical problem to a discussion about treatment alternatives and outcomes. This intervention can help surgeons structure challenging conversations to promote shared decision making in the acute setting.

Cancer Symptom Cluster Management

OBJECTIVES

To discuss the importance of cancer symptom clusters in clinical practice, review evidence for symptom cluster interventions, and make recommendations for symptom cluster identification, patient education, and management in clinical practice.

DATA SOURCES

Primary research and review articles identified through CINAHL, PubMed, and PsycINFO databases.

CONCLUSION

Several studies have investigated interventions for multi-symptom management or have evaluated the secondary effects of a single-symptom intervention on related symptoms. To date, only five studies have tested an intervention designed to manage a specific cancer symptom cluster. Those studies used nonpharmacologic approaches (psycho-education, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and acupressure) to address the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster, or the respiratory distress symptom cluster with some initial evidence of success. Further development and efficacy testing of symptom cluster interventions is needed.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Clinical practice can be guided by knowledge of individual and multi-symptom management, and clinical judgment regarding possible etiologies of cancer symptom clusters. Clinicians should be aware of co-occurring symptoms in their patients, educate and involve patients in identifying symptom clusters and aggravating/alleviating factors, and coordinate treatment recommendations using strategies that are likely to be beneficial across symptoms.

A Systematic Review of Relaxation, Meditation, and Guided Imagery Strategies for Symptom Management in Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

Pain, dyspnea, fatigue, and sleep disturbance are prevalent and distressing symptoms in persons with advanced heart failure. Although many lifestyle and self-care interventions have been developed to control heart failure progression, very few studies have explored treatments exclusively for symptom palliation. Cognitive-behavioral strategies may be effective treatment for these symptoms in advanced heart failure.

OBJECTIVE

A systemic review was conducted to describe the effect of cognitive-behavioral strategies on pain, dyspnea, fatigue, and sleep disturbance in patients with heart failure.

METHODS

CINAHL, Medline, and PsychINFO were searched from inception through December 2014. Articles were selected for inclusion if they tested a cognitive-behavioral strategy using a quasi-experimental or experimental design, involved a sample of adults with heart failure, and measured pain, dyspnea, fatigue, sleep disturbance, or symptom-related quality of life. The 2 authors evaluated study quality, abstracted data elements from each study, and synthesized findings.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles describing 9 unique studies met criteria and were included in the review. Five studies tested relaxation strategies, 3 tested meditation strategies, and 1 tested a guided imagery strategy. Of the 9 studies, 7 demonstrated some improvement in symptom outcomes. Relaxation, meditation, guided imagery, or combinations of these strategies resulted in less dyspnea and better sleep compared with attention control or usual care conditions and reduced pain, dyspnea, fatigue, and sleep disturbance within treatment groups (pretreatment to posttreatment). Symptom-related quality of life was improved with meditation compared with attention control and usual care conditions and improved pre- to post-guided imagery.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies exploring cognitive-behavioral symptom management strategies in heart failure vary in quality and report mixed findings but indicate potential beneficial effects of relaxation, meditation, and guided imagery on heart failure-related symptoms. Future research should test cognitive-behavioral strategies in rigorously designed efficacy trials, using samples selected for their symptom experience, and measure pain, dyspnea, fatigue, and sleep disturbance outcomes with targeted symptom measures.

Assisting Older Clients With Pain Management in the Home

Older home health clients experience significant pain from a variety of age-related conditions. It is important for home health nurses to be knowledgeable about strategies for assessing and managing pain that are adapted to the unique needs of the older patient. A thorough pain assessment gathers key information guiding treatment decisions and follow-up evaluation of intervention effectiveness. Nonpharmacologic interventions, including comfort measures, cutaneous stimulation techniques, and cognitive-behavioral strategies, may help to relieve mild pain when used alone and moderate to severe pain when used in addition to analgesic medications. Assessment and treatment strategies can be tailored to meet the needs of the older clients, taking into account the clients’ cognitive ability and caregivers’ willingness to participate. Home health nurses, in their limited contact time, can educate both older clients and family caregivers in actively managing pain through frequent pain assessment and the use of nonpharmacologic interventions.

Beliefs About Dysmenorrhea and Their Relationship to Self-Management

Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent and is the leading cause of work and school absences among women of reproductive age. However, self-management of dysmenorrhea is not well understood in the US, and little evidence is available on factors that influence dysmenorrhea self-management. Guided by the Common Sense Model, we examined women's representations of dysmenorrhea (beliefs about causes, symptoms, consequences, timeline, controllability, coherence, and emotional responses), described their dysmenorrhea self-management behaviors, and investigated the relationship between representations and self-management behaviors. We conducted a cross-sectional, web-based survey of 762 adult women who had dysmenorrhea symptoms in the last six months. Participants had varied beliefs about the causes of their dysmenorrhea symptoms, which were perceived as a normal part of life. Dysmenorrhea symptoms were reported as moderately severe, with consequences that moderately affected daily life. Women believed they understood their symptoms moderately well and perceived them as moderately controllable but them to continue through menopause. Most women did not seek professional care but rather used a variety of pharmacologic and complementary health approaches. Care-seeking and use of self-management strategies were associated with common sense beliefs about dysmenorrhea cause, consequences, timeline, and controllability. The findings may inform development and testing of self-management interventions that address dysmenorrhea representations and facilitate evidence-based management. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Stress biomarkers in advanced cancer patients experiencing the pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance symptom cluster

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Background: Cancer symptom clusters such as co-occurring pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance, are common and debilitating for patients with advanced disease. Stress-related neuorendocrine system alterations are thought to play a significant role in symptom co-occurrence. While studies have documented relationships between stress biomarkers and symptoms in persons with cancer, few have done so in the context of a specific symptom cluster or among persons receiving treatment for advanced disease. Objectives: This preliminary analysis describes biomarkers of neuroendocrine stress systems – salivary cortisol and salivary alpha amylase (sAA) – and their relationship with the pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance symptom cluster in cancer. Methods: We analyzed baseline data from 14 participants of a RCT of a cognitive-behavioral symptom cluster intervention. Participants were receiving chemotherapy for recurrent or metastatic cancer. The sample was largely female (93%), aged 50-74 years old (M=63.57), with lung (57%), breast (14%), GYN (22%) or prostate (7%) cancer. Participants reported symptom cluster severity and collected saliva over two days prior to a new chemotherapy cycle. Cortisol concentrations were determined by luminescence immunoassay and salivary alpha-amylase by enzyme kinetic reaction assay using standardized kits (Salimetrics, State College, PA). Results: Mean (SD) cortisol and sAA levels were within normal range and followed typical diurnal patterns (Table 1); although evening levels of cortisol appeared higher in this sample compared to those of healthy adults. Low to moderate observed correlations between symptom cluster severity and stress biomarkers (evening cortisol r = -.204; evening sAA r = .326) were not significant in this small sample. Conclusions: Elevated evening cortisol levels may suggest dysregulation of the stress response in this population. The ongoing study will further evaluate if alterations in neuroendocrine function contribute to the symptom cluster experience. Clinical trial information: NCT01954420. [Table: see text]

Self-management priority setting and decision-making in adults with multimorbidity: a narrative review of literature

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this narrative review was to synthesize current research findings related to self-management, in order to better understand the processes of priority setting and decision-making among adults with multimorbidity.

DESIGN

A narrative literature review was undertaken, synthesizing findings from published, peer-reviewed empirical studies that addressed priority setting and/or decision-making in self-management of multimorbidity.

DATA SOURCES

A search of PubMed, PsychINFO, CINAHL and SocIndex databases was conducted from database inception through December 2013. References lists from selected empirical studies and systematic reviews were evaluated to identify any additional relevant articles.

REVIEW METHODS

Full text of potentially eligible articles were reviewed and selected for inclusion if they described empirical studies that addressed priority setting or decision-making in self-management of multimorbidity among adults. Two independent reviewers read each selected article and extracted relevant data to an evidence table. Processes and factors of multimorbidity self-management were identified and sorted into categories of priority setting, decision-making, and facilitators/barriers.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles were selected for inclusion; most were qualitative studies describing processes, facilitators, and barriers of multimorbidity self-management. The findings revealed that patients prioritize a dominant chronic illness and re-prioritize over time as conditions and treatments change; that multiple facilitators (e.g. support programs) and barriers (e.g. lack of financial resources) impact individuals' self-management priority setting and decision-making ability; as do individual beliefs, preferences, and attitudes (e.g., perceived personal control, preferences regarding treatment).

CONCLUSIONS

Health care providers need to be cognizant that individuals with multimorbidity engage in day-to-day priority setting and decision-making among their multiple chronic illnesses and respective treatments. Researchers need to develop and test interventions that support day-to-day priority setting and decision-making and improve health outcomes for individuals with multimorbidity.

A randomized, double-blind study of “Scrambler” therapy versus sham for painful chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)

9635

Background: CIPN is a debilitating, dose-limiting toxicity. The MC5A is a non-invasive electro-analgesia device delivering “Scrambler Therapy,” which has shown benefit for painful CIPN in uncontrolled studies. No sham-controlled trials of MC5A have been performed. Methods: Eligible patients included adults with neuropathic pain (NP) for > 6 months, pain scores ≥4/10 numerical rating scale (NRS), and no history of diabetes or other peripheral neuropathies. Patients received up to 10 daily sessions of 50 minutes with either MC5A or a novel active sham device constructed to deliver a just perceptible electrical sensation. Sham output is neither a TENS nor MC5A and is designed to be nontherapeutic. Active and sham treatments were applied to the affected limbs. 14 patients were randomized with no baseline differences. Patients and evaluators were blinded to study arm. Pain was measured before, daily during, after and 3 months post-treatment (verbal NRS). The primary endpoint was change in pain. Secondary endpoints included quantitative neurosensory testing (QST), validated patient-report measures, and cytokines. Results: There were 7 patients in each arm. The table shows changes in pain scores pre- and post-treatment by day and group. There was no difference between arms and no arm x day interaction. There was no significant day or arm effect for the function sub scales. Conclusions: In a small pilot study, MC5A was not significantly different from sham therapy for the primary outcome. The sham is feasible and provides a mechanism for future controlled studies with MC5A. Secondary endpoints, e.g. QST are forthcoming. Clinical trial information: NCT01261780. [Table: see text]

Pilot randomized controlled trial of a patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral intervention for the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster in cancer

CONTEXT

Pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance commonly co-occur in patients receiving treatment for advanced cancer.

OBJECTIVES

A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess initial efficacy of a patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral (CB) intervention for the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster.

METHODS

Eighty-six patients with advanced lung, prostate, colorectal, or gynecologic cancers receiving treatment at a comprehensive cancer center were stratified by recruitment clinics (chemotherapy and radiation therapy) and randomized to intervention or control groups. Forty-three patients were assigned to receive training in and use of up to 12 relaxation, imagery, or distraction exercises delivered via an MP3 player for two weeks during cancer treatment. Forty-three patients were assigned to a waitlist control condition for the same two week period. Outcomes included symptom cluster severity and overall symptom interference with daily life measured at baseline (Time 1) and two weeks later (Time 2).

RESULTS

Eight participants dropped out; 78 completed the study and were analyzed (36 intervention and 42 control subjects). Participants used the CB strategies an average of 13.65 times (SD=6.98). Controlling for baseline symptom cluster severity and other relevant covariates, it was found that the symptom cluster severity at Time 2 was lower in the intervention group (M(Adj)=2.99, SE=0.29) than in the waitlist group (M(Adj)=3.87, SE=0.36), F(1, 65)=3.57, P=0.032. Symptom interference with daily life did not differ between groups. No significant adverse events were noted with the CB intervention.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that the CB intervention may be an efficacious approach to treating the pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance symptom cluster. Future research is planned to confirm efficacy and test mediators and moderators of intervention effects.

Feasibility of a patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral intervention for pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance in cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the feasibility of a patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral intervention for pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance during treatment for advanced cancer and to assess initial efficacy of the intervention.

DESIGN

One group pre- and post-test design.

SETTING

Outpatient oncology clinics at a comprehensive cancer center in the midwestern United States.

SAMPLE

30 adults with advanced (recurrent or metastatic) colorectal, lung, prostate, or gynecologic cancer receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

METHODS

Participants completed baseline measures (e.g., demographics, symptom inventory) and received education and training to use an MP3 player loaded with 12 cognitive-behavioral strategies (e.g., relaxation exercises, guided imagery, nature sound recordings). Participants used the strategies as needed for symptom management for two weeks, keeping a log of symptom ratings with each use. Following the two-week intervention, participants completed a second symptom inventory and an evaluation of the intervention.

MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES

Feasibility, patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral intervention, pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance.

FINDINGS

Thirty of 43 eligible patients (73%) agreed to participate; of them, 27 (90%) completed the study. Most reported that they enjoyed the intervention, had learned useful skills, and perceived improvement in their symptoms. Symptom scores at two weeks did not differ significantly from baseline; however, significant reductions in pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance severity were found in ratings made immediately before and after use of a cognitive-behavioral strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

The patient-controlled cognitive-behavioral intervention appears to be feasible for additional study and could reduce day-to-day severity of co-occurring pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

A randomized, controlled trial is needed to test efficacy of the intervention for co-occurring pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance. Meanwhile, based on previous efficacy studies, cognitive-behavioral strategies can be recommended for certain individual symptoms.

Mind-body treatments for the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance symptom cluster in persons with cancer

CONTEXT

Co-occurring pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance comprise a common symptom cluster in patients with cancer. Treatment approaches that target the cluster of symptoms rather than just a single symptom need to be identified and tested.

OBJECTIVES

To synthesize evidence regarding mind-body interventions that have shown efficacy in treating two or more symptoms in the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance cancer symptom cluster.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using CINAHL, Medline, and PsychInfo databases through March 2009. Studies were categorized based on the type of mind-body intervention (relaxation, imagery/hypnosis, cognitive-behavioral therapy/coping skills training [CBT/CST], meditation, music, and virtual reality), and a preliminary review was conducted with respect to efficacy for pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance. Mind-body interventions were selected for review if there was evidence of efficacy for at least two of the three symptoms. Forty-three studies addressing five types of mind-body interventions met criteria and are summarized in this review.

RESULTS

Imagery/hypnosis and CBT/CST interventions have produced improvement in all the three cancer-related symptoms individually: pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance. Relaxation has resulted in improvements in pain and sleep disturbance. Meditation interventions have demonstrated beneficial effects on fatigue and sleep disturbance. Music interventions have demonstrated efficacy for pain and fatigue. No trials were found that tested the mind-body interventions specifically for the pain-fatigue-sleep disturbance symptom cluster.

CONCLUSION

Efficacy studies are needed to test the impact of relaxation, imagery/hypnosis, CBT/CST, meditation, and music interventions in persons with cancer experiencing concurrent pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbance. These mind-body interventions could help patients manage all the symptoms in the cluster with a single treatment strategy.

Nonspecific effects in psychoeducational intervention research

Randomized clinical trials support the efficacy of a wide range of psychoeducational interventions. However, the mechanisms through which these interventions improve outcomes are not always clear. At times, the theoretically specified factors within interventions have been shown to have specific effects on patient outcomes. But it has also been argued that other factors not identified in the intervention theory (e.g., "nonspecific" factors such as patient expectations and therapeutic patient-clinician alliances) have powerful nonspecific effects that account for most, if not all, of the observed efficacy of psychoeducational interventions. This article describes important concepts in this debate and discusses key issues in distinguishing between specific and nonspecific effects of psychoeducational nursing interventions. Four examples are used to illustrate potential methods of identifying and controlling for nonspecific effects in clinical intervention trials.

Patterns of pain and distress during high-dose-rate intracavity brachytherapy for cervical cancer

Over the past decade, outpatient high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy has become increasingly common in the treatment of many women with cervical cancer. In our study, we explored women's experiences of pain and distress over a series of five HDR brachytherapy procedures given for cervical cancer. Seventeen patients receiving HDR cervical brachytherapy with conscious sedation for stages I-III cervical cancer completed ratings of pain intensity and distress and a measure of physical and emotional discomfort with each procedure. The majority of women reported worst pain in the mild to moderate range and similar ratings of worst distress across the series of procedures. The most physically uncomfortable aspect of treatment was removal of the instruments after the procedure, when sedatives had worn off. The most emotionally uncomfortable aspect was worry about the effects of treatment. A subset of women reported having recalled pain from previous procedures, despite the use of conscious sedation medications. Those women who recalled having had pain rated their worst pain during the procedure higher than women who did not recall having had pain. For most patients, HDR brachytherapy delivered with conscious sedation is well tolerated with only mild pain and distress. However, a small number of patients may experience more significant symptoms and may require additional medical and psychosocial support.

Individual difference variables and the effects of progressive muscle relaxation and analgesic imagery interventions on cancer pain

Clinicians in acute care settings are often called upon to manage cancer pain unrelieved by medications. Cognitive-behavioral strategies, such as relaxation and imagery, are recommended for cancer pain management; however, there appear to be individual differences in their effects. This pilot study examined variation in pain outcomes achieved with progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) and analgesic imagery interventions among hospitalized patients with cancer pain, and assessed the influence of four individual difference variables (cognitive ability, outcome expectancy, previous experience, and concurrent symptoms) on pain relief achieved with each intervention. A crossover design was used in which 40 hospitalized cancer patients received two trials of PMR, two trials of analgesic imagery, and two trials of a control condition. In comparing means between treatment and control conditions, both PMR and analgesic imagery produced greater improvements in pain intensity, pain-related distress, and perceived control over pain than the control condition. However, individual responder analysis revealed that only half of the participants achieved a clinically meaningful improvement in pain with each intervention. Patients who achieved a meaningful improvement in pain with analgesic imagery reported greater imaging ability, more positive outcome expectancy, and fewer concurrent symptoms than those who did not achieve a meaningful reduction in pain. Similar relationships were not significant for the PMR intervention. Investigators should continue efforts to identify factors that moderate the effects of cognitive-behavioral pain coping strategies so that clinicians can identify the most beneficial treatments for individual patients.

Patients' perceptions of the effectiveness of guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation interventions used for cancer pain

Relaxation and guided imagery are useful strategies for cancer pain; however, their effects vary from patient to patient. Patients' perceptions of these treatments and factors that contribute to their effectiveness have not previously been described. Data from interviews conducted after a trial of guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) interventions were analyzed to compare patients' perceptions of treatment effects with observed changes in pain scores, and to explore patients' ideas about factors that contributed to the effectiveness of each intervention. Post-study interviews were conducted with 26 hospitalized patients with cancer pain who had completed trials of guided imagery and PMR. In most cases, participants' perceptions of treatment effects matched observed changes in pain scores. Participants described treatment and patient characteristics that influenced effectiveness of the interventions such as active involvement in the intervention, guided instructions, providing a source of distraction, stimulating relaxation, individual abilities and preferences, and pain qualities.

Oncology nurses' use of nondrug pain interventions in practice

Cancer pain management guidelines recommend nondrug interventions as adjuvants to analgesic medications. Although physicians typically are responsible for pharmacologic pain treatments, oncology staff nurses, who spend considerable time with patients, are largely responsible for identifying and implementing nondrug pain treatments. Oncology nurses' use of nondrug interventions, however, has not been well studied. The purpose of this study was to describe oncology nurses' use of four nondrug interventions (music, guided imagery, relaxation, distraction) and to identify factors that influence their use in practice. A national sample of 724 oncology staff nurses completed a mailed survey regarding use of the nondrug interventions in practice, beliefs about the interventions, and demographic characteristics. The percentages of nurses who reported administering the strategies in practice at least sometimes were 54% for music, 40% for guided imagery, 82% for relaxation, and 80% for distraction. Use of each nondrug intervention was predicted by a composite score on beliefs about effectiveness of the intervention (e.g., perceived benefit; P<0.025) and a composite score on beliefs about support for carrying out the intervention (e.g., time; P<0.025). In addition, use of guided imagery was predicted by a composite score on beliefs about characteristics of patients who may benefit from the intervention (e.g., cognitive ability; P<0.05). Some nurse demographic, professional preparation, and practice environment characteristics also predicted use of individual nondrug interventions. Efforts to improve application of nondrug interventions should focus on innovative educational strategies, problem solving to secure support, and development and testing of new delivery methods that require less time from busy staff nurses.

Systematic Review of Relaxation Interventions for Pain

PURPOSE

To review randomized trials of relaxation interventions used for the treatment of pain in adults and to synthesize evidence regarding the efficacy of specific techniques.

DESIGN

Integrative review.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using the terms "relaxation" and "pain" in CINAHL, Medline, and PsychInfo from 1996 to March 2005. Studies were reviewed and categorized based on the type of relaxation intervention (progressive muscle relaxation [PMR], autogenic training, jaw relaxation, rhythmic breathing, and other relaxation exercises), and summarized with respect to various study characteristics and results.

FINDINGS

Researchers reported support for relaxation interventions in 8 of the 15 studies reviewed. The most frequently supported technique was progressive muscle relaxation, particularly for arthritis pain. Investigators reported support for jaw relaxation and a systematic relaxation intervention for relieving postoperative pain. Little evidence was found for autogenic training, and no support for rhythmic breathing or other relaxation techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the studies reviewed had weaknesses in methodology, which limited the ability to draw conclusions about interventions. Further research is needed to confirm positive findings related to PMR, jaw relaxation, and systematic relaxation, to address questions related to the dose-response relationship and the individual differences that might influence response to relaxation interventions. These and other relaxation techniques require testing in carefully designed and conducted trials.

Impact of a Volunteer Companion Program on Nursing Students' Knowledge and Concerns Related to Palliative Care

BACKGROUND

Deficiencies in end-of-life education may explain nursing students' reports of feeling anxious and unqualified to care for dying patients. A volunteer Palliative Care Companion program was developed to provide undergraduate nursing students with an experiential learning opportunity by spending time with dying patients and their families.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of the Palliative Care Companion program on nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, and concerns about providing palliative care, and to describe companion students' volunteer activities.

DESIGN

Quasiexperimental controlled pretest-posttest design.

SETTING/SUBJECTS

Fifty-two undergraduate nursing students (32 companion students, 20 controls) at a midwestern U.S. university with an affiliated hospital-based palliative care service.

MEASUREMENTS

All participants completed the Palliative Care Quiz for Nurses, Attitudes Toward Palliative Care, and Concern About Caring for Dying Patients questionnaires at the beginning and end of the semester. Companion subjects also kept a journal describing their palliative care experiences.

RESULTS

Attitude scores were not analyzed because of poor internal consistency of the questionnaire. Changes in scores on knowledge items did not reach significance. Concern scores decreased significantly from pretest to posttest in the companion group. After adjusting for pretest concern score, there was a trend toward lower concern score in the companion group compared to controls (p=0.07). Companion students' journals described activities including visiting patients, viewing end-of-life videos, attending educational and public lectures, independent reading, and making bereavement phone calls to family members.

CONCLUSIONS

The Palliative Care Companion program did not produce significant improvements in knowledge and concerns compared to controls, but companion students described their participation as a meaningful learning experience.

Companionship and Education: A Nursing Student Experience in Palliative Care

Currently, major deficiencies exist in undergraduate nursing education for end-of-life care. Nursing students report feeling anxious and unprepared to be with patients who are dying. A Palliative Care Companion program that allows undergraduate nursing students to volunteer to spend time with patients at the end of life provides a unique educational opportunity to enhance students' knowledge and attitudes toward palliative care. In addition, the program offers a service to patients and families by providing a nonmedical, caring human presence to patients who may be alone, lonely, or bored. In accordance with tenets of Experiential Learning Theory, a Palliative Care Companion program was developed and revised using feedback from initial participants and facilitators. Data collected during the first two semesters indicated increased knowledge of palliative care, improved attitudes about care at the end of life, and fewer concerns about providing nursing care to dying patients, when participating students were compared to their undergraduate peers.

Nursing and Psychological Treatments

Presents a comment on "Psychological Treatments" by D. H. Barlow. In his article, Barlow pointed to the need "to solidify the identification of psychology as a health care profession" by changing the terminology of practice in the health care context from psychotherapy to psychological treatments and suggested that the only persons qualified to carry out such interventions are doctoral-level psychologists. Unfortunately, there was no discussion of the health care professionals who already provide psychological treatments in health care settings and their contribution to the evidence base supporting such treatment. The authors find several aspects of the article to be problematic. Overall, the authors feel that suggesting that psychology should claim treatment of psychological disorders and psychological components of physical disorders in health care settings as exclusively its own domain ignores the research and clinical contributions of others.

A pilot study to predict success with guided imagery for cancer pain

Guided imagery, as other nonpharmacologic strategies, has been demonstrated to be useful for some patients. However, no tested method exists to identify which patients are likely to benefit from this pain management strategy. This pilot study tested a model to predict success with guided imagery. Major concepts tested included imaging ability, outcome expectancy, history of imagery use, match with preferred coping style, and perceived credibility of the imagery provider. A one-group pretest-posttest design was used. A sample of 62 hospitalized cancer patients currently experiencing pain rated >/=3 on a 0 to 10 scale completed questionnaires and used an audiotaped imagery intervention. Pain outcomes examined included mean pain intensity and distress, positive and negative affect, and perceived control over pain. A path analysis was conducted using multiple regression to evaluate relationships proposed in the model. Previous history with imagery predicted outcome expectancy. Imaging ability predicted mean pain intensity, positive affect, and perceived control over pain. Outcome expectancy was not a significant predictor of any pain outcomes. Baseline status and concurrent symptoms, measured as covariates, also played a significant role in predicting outcomes. Variance explained in pain outcomes ranged from 10% to 52% (adjusted R(2) = 3% to 48%). Further exploration of model variables is warranted. Findings suggest that after considering current symptom experience, imaging ability may be a useful variable to assess in order to determine whether guided imagery is an appropriate intervention for individual patients.

Music versus distraction for procedural pain and anxiety in patients with cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To test the hypotheses that the effects of a music intervention are greater than those of simple distraction and that either intervention is better at controlling procedural pain and anxiety than treatment as usual.

DESIGN

Randomized, controlled experiment.

SETTING

A midwestern comprehensive cancer center.

SAMPLE

60 people with cancer having noxious medical procedures such as tissue biopsy or port placement or removal; 58 provided usable data.

METHODS

Participants completed measures of pain and anxiety before and after their medical procedures and provided a rating of perceived control over pain and anxiety after the procedure.

MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES

Procedural pain, state anxiety, and perceived control over pain and anxiety.

FINDINGS

Contrary to hypotheses, outcomes achieved with music did not differ from those achieved with simple distraction. Moreover, outcomes achieved under treatment as usual were not significantly different from those obtained with music or distraction interventions. Some patients found that the interventions were bothersome and reported that they wanted to attend to the activities of the surgeon and the medical procedure itself.

CONCLUSIONS

The effects of music, distraction, and treatment as usual are equivocal. In addition, patients have individual preferences for use of distraction during painful or anxiety-provoking procedures.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Patients having noxious medical procedures should be asked about their desire to be distracted before and during the procedure and offered a strategy that is consistent with their preferences.

Recognizing and responding to post-traumatic stress disorder in people with cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To describe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients with cancer and identify nursing assessment and intervention strategies.

DATA SOURCES

Discussion of recent research literature in relation to oncology nursing practice.

DATA SYNTHESIS

4%-19% of patients with cancer experience symptoms of PTSD. When PTSD routinely is considered as a risk for patients with cancer, nurses can reframe intense psychological and physiologic reactions or patient distress as possible trauma reactions and implement appropriate interventions and referral.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cancer may experience PTSD as a consequence of their cancer diagnosis, treatment, or a past traumatic episode. PTSD may interfere with patients' ability to tolerate treatment and return for crucial follow-up care. To date, no studies have explored interventions for PTSD in adult patients with cancer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Oncology nurses can help patients with PTSD by interpreting psychological symptoms with the possibility of PTSD in mind, screening for PTSD across the illness trajectory, providing emotional support, teaching coping strategies, and advocating for further assessment, medical treatment, and appropriate referral within the multidisciplinary care team.

Pain management strategies used by patients with breast and gynecologic cancer with postoperative pain

Many people with cancer will experience pain when they are outside of structured care settings. Patients must provide their own self-care, drawing on instructions from healthcare providers and on independently developed plans for pain management. With growing interest in complementary therapies, the scope of nonpharmacologic interventions used by patients with cancer to manage pain may be very different than 10-15 years ago. The purpose of this study was to describe steps taken by patients with breast and gynecologic cancer to manage pain after discharge from a surgical hospitalization. A secondary analysis was completed using data from 34 women who participated in a randomized trial of guided imagery. Techniques used included positioning, distraction, relaxation, heat, and eating/drinking. Compared to results of previous studies, increased use of relaxation strategies (breathing, imagery, music, meditation) was noted in the current study. The majority of participants used nonpharmacologic strategies in addition to analgesic medications. Pain-related outcomes were similar among persons who used analgesic medications alone and those who used a combination of analgesics and nonpharmacologic strategies. Nurses may benefit from knowing which pain management strategies patients find helpful so that they can encourage their use and teach similar strategies to the patients who find them useful.

Outcome expectancy and success with cognitive-behavioral interventions: the case of guided imagery

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To describe the role of outcome expectancy in the use of cognitive-behavioral interventions and to test three variables (history of imagery use, preferred coping style, and perceived credibility of the imagery provider) as predictors of outcome expectancy regarding guided imagery.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis using a descriptive, correlational design.

SETTING

Surgery clinics at a large, midwestern university hospital.

SAMPLE

75 women undergoing surgery for gynecologic or breast cancers.

METHODS

Data were collected as part of an ongoing trial of guided imagery. Participants completed measures of outcome expectancy and predictor variables at a preoperative clinic visit.

MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES

Outcome expectancy regarding a guided imagery intervention, previous history with imagery, preferred coping style, and perceived credibility of the imagery provider.

FINDINGS

Significant relationships were demonstrated between previous history of imagery use and outcome expectancy (r = 0.47, p < 0.01) and between perceived credibility of the imagery provider and outcome expectancy (r = 0.45, p < 0.05). Preferred coping style was not related to outcome expectancy in this sample. Psychometric properties of new instruments were satisfactory.

CONCLUSIONS

Previous history of imagery use and perceived credibility of the imagery provider were supported as predictors of outcome expectancy. Future research will be necessary to reexamine the predictive role of preferred coping style.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses should be aware of the potential role of outcome expectancy in effectiveness of nursing interventions. Patients' previous use of cognitive-behavioral interventions and perceptions of credibility may be helpful in selecting appropriate strategies.

Assessment of pain in the critically ill

Accurate assessment of pain in the critically ill is undoubtedly a challenge. In this setting, however, the nurse can rise to the challenge and have a significant impact on pain management. Some careful thought and planning may allow the nurse to adapt usual assessment tools for use by patients who have difficulty in communicating. When patients cannot communicate, having accurate knowledge about pain and about the patient's condition can help nurses to make appropriate use of behavioral and physiologic signs. More research is necessary to test specific pain assessment tools in ICU settings. In addition, more studies are needed to document the reliability and validity of scales based on behavioral and physiologic indicators of pain in critical care settings. In the meantime, nurses can take several steps to ensure adequate pain assessment: (1) use all means possible to document the patient's self-report of the pain experience, (2) supplement these ratings with behavioral and physiologic indicators of pain status, and (3) document findings to comunicate the patient's pain to others caring for the patient. A careful thorough attempt to assess pain can ensure better pain, outcomes as well as a quicker and more positive return to health.

Measuring imaging ability in children

INTRODUCTION

Guided imagery has been suggested as an intervention to help children cope with noxious symptoms associated with medical care. A measure of imaging ability, that is, the ability to generate vivid mental images and to experience those images as if they were real, could be helpful in identifying children most likely to succeed in relieving symptoms with guided imagery. The purpose of this study was to test psychometric properties of a new instrument, the Kids Imaging Ability Questionnaire (KIAQ).

METHOD

Three expert clinicians and researchers were asked to review the KIAQ to assess content validity. A convenience sample of 58 children were invited to complete the questionnaire twice to obtain data for tests of reliability and criterion-related validity.

RESULTS

Content validity, internal consistency (alpha =.75-.76), and test-retest reliability (r =.73) were acceptable. Criterion-related validity using the Singer Fantasy Proneness Interview as a standard was poor (rho =.31-.46).

DISCUSSION

Some psychometric properties were acceptable; however, continued research will be necessary to test validity of the questionnaire and demonstrate a relationship between KIAQ score and success with imagery. With continued research, pediatric nurses may use the KIAQ in practice to identify children most likely to benefit from guided imagery.

Measuring imaging ability: psychometric testing of the imaging ability questionnaire

Imaging ability, defined as the ability to create vivid mental images and to experience those images as if they were almost real, has been suggested as a moderator in effective use of guided imagery for symptom relief. Persons with good imaging ability are thought to be more likely to succeed in relieving a symptom with guided imagery than persons with poor imaging ability. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of an instrument designed to measure imaging ability, the Imaging Ability Questionnaire (IAQ). A descriptive correlational design was used to conduct item analyses and explore psychometric properties of the IAQ. A total of 200 persons from the Midwest completed a 54-item version of the IAQ. Twenty-two items that failed to discriminate among levels of imaging ability were eliminated from the questionnaire. The final version of the IAQ contained 32 items and demonstrated good internal consistency (alpha =.93) and test-retest reliability (r =.92). Support for construct validity of the questionnaire was provided by demonstrating expected differences in IAQ score between persons for whom imagery worked and persons for whom imagery did not work. Future testing and use of the questionnaire in research and practice are discussed.

A model for cognitive-behavioral interventions in cancer pain management

PURPOSE

To propose a model for predicting success with cognitive-behavioral interventions in cancer pain management. Practice guidelines are useful, however nurses currently have little theoretic or empiric basis for choosing one particular strategy over another. Moreover, nurses have no way of knowing if a particular intervention is likely to work.

ORGANIZING CONSTRUCT

The model indicates characteristics of a person in relation to interventions including skill and ability, outcome expectancies, perceived credibility, history of use, preferred coping style, and pain outcomes.

SOURCES

The model was developed using sources identified through a literature search of relevant topics in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Psychlit (1996-1997), as well as through clinical experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Continued empiric testing of the model is necessary to confirm proposed relationships and to assess accuracy of the model's predictions with various cognitive-behavioral interventions. With this testing, the model can help nurses select appropriate interventions for individual patients.

The impact on quality of life of patient-related barriers to pain management

A stress-coping model of relationships between patients' beliefs about pain, coping (analgesic use), pain severity, analgesic side-effects, and three quality of life (QOL) outcomes was tested. Participants were 182 men and women with cancer who completed valid and reliable self-report measures of relevant variables. Antecedent variables (age and education) showed expected relationships with beliefs. As predicted, beliefs were significantly related to analgesic use. Analgesic use was inversely related to pain severity, but was not related to side-effect severity. Analgesic use was inversely related to impairments in QOL before controlling for pain and side-effect severity, but not after these two variables were controlled. Both analgesic side-effects and pain severity were related to impaired QOL outcomes, including difficulty performing life activities, depressed mood, and poor perceived health status.

The impact on quality of life of patient-related barriers to pain management

A stress-coping model of relationships between patients' beliefs about pain, coping (analgesic use), pain severity, analgesic side-effects, and three quality of life (QOL) outcomes was tested. Participants were 182 men and women with cancer who completed valid and reliable self-report measures of relevant variables. Antecedent variables (age and education) showed expected relationships with beliefs. As predicted, beliefs were significantly related to analgesic use. Analgesic use was inversely related to pain severity, but was not related to side-effect severity. Analgesic use was inversely related to impairments in QOL before controlling for pain and side-effect severity, but not after these two variables were controlled. Both analgesic side-effects and pain severity were related to impaired QOL outcomes, including difficulty performing life activities, depressed mood, and poor perceived health status.

The placebo effect in symptom management

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To explore current knowledge of placebo effects, including proposed explanatory mechanisms, influencing factors, characteristics, and implications for practice and research.

DATA SOURCES

Published and unpublished articles, books, and monographs.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Placebo effects occur in up to 90% of nursing interventions. They may be explained by several mechanisms and are influenced by nurse/physician demeanor, patient factors, the patient-provider relationship, treatment factors, and context of the healthcare encounter.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurses need to control for placebo effects when testing whether an intervention has desired effects, but once such effects have been demonstrated, nurses can make use of placebo effects to enhance the impact of their interventions.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses can take measures to improve the patient's response to treatment, including providing a comfortable environment, using therapeutic communication techniques, helping patients to understand specific mechanisms of their treatment, and encouraging positive expectations and motivation for effectiveness.