Non‐pharmacologic management of pain in the person with cancer

摘要

Although non‐pharmacologic interventions have been available and have been described in the literature, it is questionable as to how effectively this knowledge has been translated into effective pain relief for the person with cancer. Little documentation is available about what is being used or how effective it has been. There is also very little research available to look at the various factors that relate to these issues. Therefore, more research in this area is needed to define actual practices, effectiveness of interventions, individuals most likely to benefit from this type of approach and the most effective combinations of the various interventions.Another key problem may be the knowledge and past experiences of the nurse. Sanderset al.(1980) evaluated 37 nurses as to their knowledge of basic behavioural principles and terminology as well as which patients should have what principles applied. There was only a mean of 65 correct responses to a questionnaire designed to test their knowledge. Their findings suggest ‘that there is a need for more ‘formal’ training in behavioural principles and their appropriate application as part of nurses’ academic curriculum. Furthermore, such training should definitely include and emphasize methods to increase positive behaviour, as well as instruction in how to accurately discriminate when and with which patients behavioural methods would be appropriate’ (Sanderset al.1980).Nurses need to become more familiar and comfortable with these interventions and be aware of the benefits and limitations. This can be done through self‐study and practice as well as through formal courses.Nursing management of the person with cancer experiencing pain should include an armamentarium of both pharmacologic and non‐pharmacologic interventions. These interventions may enable that individual to develop physical comfort and psychological peace. The ultimate goal of nursing management is to alleviate suffering so that the person experiencing cancer pain can function in as full a lifestyle as possible. Once successful, we may begin to alter the strong negative association between