Chemotherapy and cognitive function : an educational program for nurses -

Abstract

Advancement in cancer treatments has increased the life expectancy of cancer patients. Despite the increase in life expectancy, the quality of life is not optimal due to chemotherapy induced cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment (also known as chemo-brain) is estimated to occur in 15 to75percent of breast and colorectal cancer patients which has been related to poorer quality of life. In this project a review of the literature was conducted to examine the effect of chemotherapy and other related factors on cognition in cancer patients. Moreover, this paper includes a comprehensive review of the currently available evidence-based pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments for chemotherapy associated cognitive impairment known to improve cognitive function and quality of life in thesepatients. The purpose of this project is to develop an evidence-based educational session for oncology nurses. This educational session will include the available pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions for chemo-brain, in order for the nurses to educate the patients about the non-pharmacological interventions used to improve or prevent chemo-brain. The clinical management, treatment approach and offerings, for chemotherapy induced cognitive decline at the American University of Beirut Medical Center were explored and a list of non-pharmacologic interventions that may improve cognitive performance in patients receiving chemotherapy was recommended. Based on these, an educational session for oncology nurses was prepared. This session aims to enhance the nurses’ knowledge about cognitive impairment during chemotherapy and related evidence-based non-pharmacologic treatments. This session will serve as a guide for oncology nurses caring for patients receiving chemotherapy and complaining of cognitive impairment. The session will have a pre and post quiz about chemotherapy induced cognitive impairment for nurses. In addition, an immediate evaluation of the session, with a follow up evaluation at three months consisting