Non-pharmacological Symptom Cluster Management in Children with Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy and Nursing Roles
Keywords:
Chemotherapy, Children with cancer, Nursing role, Symptom cluster managementAbstract
Symptom cluster management is essential, as children with cancer receiving chemotherapy often experience complex and interrelated symptoms. Symptom clusters commonly comprise both subjective self-reported symptoms and objective clinical observations. Non-pharma- cological management represents a key approach for addressing the complexity of symptom clusters, and nurses play a central role in implementing and coordinating integrated care. This article aims to present non-pharmacological approaches to symptom cluster manage- ment and to delineate the roles of nurses in reducing symptom severity and enhancing the quality of life of children with cancer receiving chemotherapy.
Non-pharmacological symptom cluster management in pediatric oncology encom- passes psychological interventions, mindfulness-based interventions, physical activities, and complementary and alternative therapies. These approaches are effective and safe, with an emphasis on age-appropriate application and commonly observed symptom clusters. Framed within holistic nursing care and family-centered care principles, non-pharmacological interventions can reduce symptom severity and promote overall well-being among children with cancer and their families. In addition, pediatric oncology nurses play crucial roles in symptom assessment and monitoring, clinical care, family support, care coordination, and research and innovation development to enhance the clinical outcomes of children with cancer. Therefore, incorporating non-pharmacological symptom cluster management into routine cancer care is essential for optimizing patient outcomes, improving quality of life, and supporting long-term survivorship in children with cancer receiving chemotherapy.
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