Journal of palliative medicine
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Improving Palliative Care and Quality of Life in Pancreatic Cancer Patients.
Background: Pancreatic cancer patients often present with complications, which can impact treatment tolerance. Thus, symptom management is a vital component of treatment in addition to traditional chemotherapeutics. Concurrent palliative care with an emphasis on aggressive symptom management may sustain both clinical and patient-centered outcomes during treatment. ⋯ Patients reported moderate severity in psychological and physical stress. Conclusions: In this secondary analysis, a nurse-led palliative care intervention may improve the QOL and psychological distress of pancreatic cancer patients. A phase III trial focused on patients with pancreatic cancer is needed to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.