The importance of assessment rating scales for chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis.

PURPOSE/
OBJECTIVES: To review the literature related to chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis and highlight four empirically supported oral mucositis rating scales that oncology nurses can use. DATA SOURCES: CINAHL and MEDLINE databases, published articles, and supplemental publications. DATA SYNTHESIS: Various oral mucositis rating scales have been developed; however, a lack of consensus exists regarding their use in clinical practice.
CONCLUSIONS: To date, standards of practice for the assessment of oral mucositis do not exist, yet clinical measures are necessary for oncology nurses to manage the side effect effectively. The selection of a valid and reliable rating tool is necessary for routine oral assessment and for facilitating optimal patient outcomes related to oral mucositis. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Knowing patient risk factors and the circumstances that exacerbate oral mucositis are keys to performing quality oral assessments. Oncology nurses should make performing oral assessments with a valid and reliable rating scale a priority. Further research regarding oral mucositis rating scales is needed.