Wangnum, K., Thanarojanawanich, T., Chinwatanachai, K., Jamprasert, L., Maleehuan, O., & Janthakun, V. (2013). Impact of the multidisciplinary education program in self-care on fatigue in lung cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand = Chotmaihet Thangphaet, 96, 1601–1608.
To examine the effects of a multidisciplinary intervention on fatigue
The intervention group received training in individual sessions at week one, three, and six. A physical therapist provided education in deep breathing and designed a program of physical exercises to do at home. A nutritionist assessed needs and educated patients in nutrition during therapy. A nurse met with the patient, providing general psychoeducational intervention. All specialists had sessions with the patient at all study time points.
At the end of the study, the trial group had a lower fatigue score than controls (p = .036).
A multidisciplinary intervention to promote self-care may reduce symptoms of fatigue.
Education provided by a multidisciplinary group may be beneficial and positively impact fatigue during cancer therapy.