Implementation of a Non-Pharmacological Approach to Enhance Adult Cancer Pain Management: The Comfort Kit

Abstract

Background: Cancer pain is prevalent and often inadequately managed, leading to compromised quality of life and increased healthcare costs. Non-pharmacological approaches, such as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), offer potential to complement conventional pain management. However, their integration into clinical practice remains limited, particularly in Lebanon.

Objective: This project aimed to develop and implement a comfort kit incorporating CAM therapies to enhance pain management for Adult Oncology In patients at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC). Methods: A literature review was conducted to examine evidence on non-pharmacological pain management strategies and comfort kits. A comfort kit was designed, and a nurse-led educational program was implemented to introduce and guide patients on its use.

Results: The comfort kit included various CAM therapies (e.g., acupuncture wristbands, aromatherapy, positioning pillows, sleep masks, stress-relief tools). Nurses played a pivotal role in educating patients about the kit's benefits and safe use.

Conclusion: Integrating CAM therapies through a comfort kit can complement conventional pain management, potentially improving quality of life, reducing reliance on pharmacological interventions, and empowering patients in their healing process. Nurses are crucial in educating and supporting patients' use of CAM therapies. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the comfort kit in larger patient populations and assess its impact on patient outcomes.

Keywords: Cancer pain, complementary and alternative medicine, comfort kit, integrative pain management, nursing education