Management of chemotherapy-related symptoms in children and adolescents: family caregivers’ perspectives

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-220X-REEUSP-2020-0484

Keywords:

Neoplasms, Drug Therapy, Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions, Caregivers, Pediatric Nursing

Abstract

Objective: To describe the chemotherapy-associated symptoms and the strategies used for their management from the perspective of pediatric cancer patients’ family caregivers. Methods: This is a descriptive study with qualitative data analysis. Data collection took place in a pediatric hospital, from December 2017 to December 2018, with family caregivers of pediatric patients undergoing chemotherapy. Semi-structured interviews, subjected to inductive content analysis, were carried out. Concepts from the Symptom Management Theory were used to discuss the results. Results: Eighteen family caregivers participated. The participants mentioned: physical symptoms, especially weakness, alopecia, low immunity, pain, mucositis, constipation, nausea, and vomiting; emotional or psychosocial symptoms such as sadness and mood changes; and constitutional symptoms such as loss of appetite and fever. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures were mentioned in the management of symptoms and adverse effects. Conclusion: Participants demonstrated skills to identify and manage symptoms of chemotherapy. Knowing the experience of these families can help nurses in planning care and interventions to minimize these events.

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Published

2021-08-21

Issue

Section

Original Article

How to Cite

Silva-Rodrigues, F. M., Lucca, M. de, Leite, A. C. A. B., Alvarenga, W. de A., Nunes, M. D. R., & Nascimento, L. C. (2021). Management of chemotherapy-related symptoms in children and adolescents: family caregivers’ perspectives. Revista Da Escola De Enfermagem Da USP, 55, e20200484. https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-220X-REEUSP-2020-0484