Assessment and measurement of oral mucositis.

摘要

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the assessment and monitoring of mucositis and provide an overview of instruments available to assess or measure mucositis. DATA SOURCE: Published journal articles, texts, and clinical experience. CONCLUSION: The lack of consistent use of valid and reliable instruments for the assessment of mucositis have limited progress in the prevention and management of mucositis. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses play a key role in the assessment of oral cavity changes. Using valid and reliable measures will foster the ability to predict risk for mucositis and to test the effectiveness of protocols for its prevention and treatment.