Journal
JOURNAL OF PAIN AND SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT
Volume 42, Issue 6, Pages 822-838Publisher
ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2011.03.017
Keywords
Cancer; neuropathic pain; evidence-based treatment; algorithm
Funding
- Oncology Nursing Society Foundation Center for Leadership, Information and Research through Genentech, Inc.
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Context. The purpose of this case series study was to pilot test an evidence-based neuropathic pain (NP) treatment and referral algorithm for use by oncology nurses when managing cancer-related NP. Objectives. The primary study objective was to assess patient-reported outcomes (pain severity, changes in activities of daily living, and satisfaction) resulting from algorithm use. Methods. Outpatients (n = 20) with cancer-related NP scores >= 4 on a 0-10 numeric rating scale participated in the study. NP assessment, treatment, and referral to ancillary providers were guided by an evidence-based NP algorithm that was implemented by oncology nurse practitioners. Based on efficacy evidenced through randomized clinical trials published at the time of study implementation, the following drugs were included in the algorithm: lidocaine patch, gabapentin, oxycodone, tramadol, morphine, methadone, duloxetine, pregabalin, and nortriptyline. Recommendations for starting dose, dose escalation, drug combinations, treatment duration, and contraindications were included for first-tier drugs. Patient-reported outcomes (pain severity, functional capacity, and satisfaction) were assessed monthly over 12 weeks. Results. Average NP severity (P = 0.001), general activity (P < 0.001), mood (P = 0.002), walking ability (P = 0.01), ability to perform normal work (P = 0.002), relationships (P = 0.002), sleep (P = 0.01), life enjoyment (P < 0.001), and patient satisfaction (P = 0.003) all improved by 12 weeks. Conclusion. Evidence from this pilot study suggests that NP evidence-based treatment may result in improved symptoms, function, and patient satisfaction. A randomized controlled trial is needed to further assess algorithm efficacy. J Pain Symptom Manage 2011;42:822-838. (C) 2011 U.S. Cancer Pain Relief Committee. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available