Clement K Gwede1. 1. Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To describe the pathophysiology, incidence, and impact of radiation-induced diarrhea (RID), and to highlight the radiation oncology nurse's role. DATA SOURCES: Primary and tertiary literature, and clinical experience. CONCLUSION: RID is a frequent complication of pelvic radiation, both when given alone and with chemotherapy. RID can significantly affect patient quality of life. Since diarrhea may be a difficult topic for patients to discuss, special care needs to be taken to avoid underdiagnosis of this problem. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The oncology nurse is uniquely situated to monitor patients for the development of RID, assess its severity and provide guidance to the health care team on the patient's status.
OBJECTIVES: To describe the pathophysiology, incidence, and impact of radiation-induced diarrhea (RID), and to highlight the radiation oncology nurse's role. DATA SOURCES: Primary and tertiary literature, and clinical experience. CONCLUSION: RID is a frequent complication of pelvic radiation, both when given alone and with chemotherapy. RID can significantly affect patient quality of life. Since diarrhea may be a difficult topic for patients to discuss, special care needs to be taken to avoid underdiagnosis of this problem. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The oncology nurse is uniquely situated to monitor patients for the development of RID, assess its severity and provide guidance to the health care team on the patient's status.
Authors: Alejandro Sanz-Paris; María Martinez-García; Javier Martinez-Trufero; Julio Lambea-Sorrosal; Fernando Calvo-Gracia; María Elena López-Alaminos Journal: Nutrients Date: 2019-08-13 Impact factor: 5.717