Date Approved

1991

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Nursing (M.S.N.)

Degree Program

College of Nursing

First Advisor

Emily Droste-Bielak

Second Advisor

Patricia Underwood

Third Advisor

Ruth Ann Brintnall

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive study was to investigate patients' responses to chemotherapy teaching on drug side effects and side effect management. Concepts of self-care from Orem's theory of Self-Care Deficits provided the conceptual framework.; Nineteen cancer patients were given specific information on chemotherapy side effects and side effect management prior to initiating treatment. Patients maintained a written log of experienced side effects and self-care behaviors that they initiated to manage these effects. Number of side effects, intensity and distress rating of side effects, reported self-care behaviors, and effectiveness of the behaviors were analyzed using percentages. Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, stomatitis, and alopecia were cited as the most frequently experienced side effects. The most frequently performed self-care behaviors were taking prescribed medication, diet selection, oral care, and wearing a wig. Teaching information sheets were the most frequent source of information used to manage chemotherapy side effects.

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