Overview of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea

Abstract

Objectives: To provide a general overview of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea (CID) that will highlight the pathophysiology, incidence, and impact of this problem, as well as describe the oncology nurse's role in the management of CID.

Data sources: Primary and tertiary literature, the authors' clinical experience.

Conclusion: CID is a frequent complication of many types of chemotherapy that can significantly affect patient quality of life, increase treatment costs, and limit the ability to deliver full doses of chemotherapy. Because patients may be reluctant to discuss diarrhea with their health care providers, vigilance on the part of the health care team is needed.

Implications for nursing practice: Through ongoing, regular patient contact, the oncology nurse is uniquely situated to monitor patients for the development of CID, assess its severity, and provide guidance to the health care team on the patient's status.