The Symptom Experiences of Puerto Rican Children Undergoing Cancer Treatments and Alleviation Practices as Reported by Their Mothers

December 2016 in “ International journal of nursing practice ”

Velda J. González-Mercado, Phoebe D. Williams, Arthur R. Williams, Elsa Pedro, Gloria Colón

TLDR Puerto Rican children with cancer often experience symptoms like irritability, nausea, and hair loss, and need better education and continuous symptom management.

The study examined the symptom experiences and alleviation practices reported by mothers of 65 Puerto Rican children undergoing cancer treatments. The children, with a mean age of 9.2 years, experienced common symptoms such as irritability (77%), nausea (75%), and hair loss (72%). The most frequently used symptom alleviation method was "taking prescribed medicines." The study highlighted the need for educating patients and caregivers about treatment-induced side effects and the importance of continuous symptom assessment and management to optimize clinical care and improve the quality of life for patients and families.

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