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Chemotherapy-Related Fatigue in Childhood Cancer: Correlates, Consequences, and Coping Strategies
Stan F. Whitsett, PhD*,
Maria Gudmundsdottir, PhD, RN,
Betty Davies, PhD, RN, FAAN,
Patricia McCarthy, MSc(A), RN,
and
Debra Friedman, MD
* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: Stan.Whitsett{at}us.army.mil.
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Abstract |
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The aim of this research is to examine the experience and impact of chemotherapy-related fatigue in recently diagnosed pediatric oncology patients. A repeated-measures, within-subjects, mixed (quantitative plus qualitative) design was used to prospectively assess fatigue during early chemotherapy cycles and to compare fatigue to depressive symptoms. Parental interviews collected concurrently were analyzed for descriptions of the childs fatigue and mood states and for strategies to cope with fatigue. Results indicated a significant correlation between fatigue and depression, but qualitative analyses suggested that the 2 phenomena may be unique and distinguishable. Qualitative analyses of parent interviews also identified specific strategies that were frequently used in response to high levels of fatigue. The findings illustrate the significant impact of chemotherapy-related fatigue in children being treated for cancer. The study also provides guidance for the assessment of fatigue and related symptoms and identifies specific strategies for coping with fatigue.
First published on February 29, 2008, doi:10.1177/1043454208315546
Journal of Pediatric Oncology Nursing 2008;25:86.
A more recent version of this article appeared on April 1, 2008

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