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Evidence-Based Supplement Research
Evidence-Based Supplement Research

Effectiveness of nursing interventions in preventing and treating radiotherapy side effects in cancer patients: a systematic review.

  • 2021
  • Revista da Escola de Enfermagem da U S P 55
    • Aline Moraes de Abreu
    • Duan Renato da Silva Fraga
    • Bruna Bastos Giergowicz
    • Rosália Borges Figueiró
    • Roberta Waterkemper

Study Design

Type
Systematic Review
Methods
A mixed-method systematic review. Quantitative and qualitative studies are presented.

Objective

To synthesize the best available evidence on the effectiveness of nursing interventions in radiotherapy patient care and to summarize the evidence on the experience and acceptability of interventions reported by health professionals involved in the prevention and treatment of side effects.

Method

A mixed-method systematic review. Quantitative and qualitative studies are presented.

Results

Twelve studies published between 2013 and 2017 were included. Most interventions found focused on skin care, oral care, nausea and vomiting and nursing consultation. In accordance with high level of evidence and recommendation grade of the studies, the use of Calendula officinalis and thyme honey were considered effective for preventing and treating radiodermatitis and mucositis, respectively.

Conclusion

The quality of evidence of nursing interventions is weak. Although there are studies with a strong design and a high level of evidence, publication of nursing interventions is not enough and does not present a high quality to support practice to plan an effective patient-centered care.

Research Insights

  • the use of Calendula officinalis and thyme honey were considered effective for preventing and treating radiodermatitis and mucositis, respectively.

    Effect
    Beneficial
    Effect size
    Small

Adverse Events Reported

  • CalendulaOverall tolerability

    the use of Calendula officinalis and thyme honey were considered effective for preventing and treating radiodermatitis and mucositis, respectively

    Finding
    Reported
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