Symptom Clusters in Children and Adolescents with Cancer

Abstract

Objective: To report evidence regarding assessment methods and management strategies for symptom clusters among children and adolescents with cancer.

Data sources: Published research and clinical guidelines.

Conclusion: Although a number of studies have identified multiple co-occurring symptoms in children and adolescents with cancer, only a few have included analyses aimed at identifying symptom clusters. Evidence is limited for symptom cluster management strategies.

Implications for nursing practice: Researchers and clinicians need to employ mechanisms that support children and adolescents to: 1) fully express multiple, co-occurring symptoms; 2) identify symptom clusters within specific developmental and diagnostic groups; and 3) develop and evaluate interventions targeting symptom clusters.

Keywords: adolescent; cancer; children; symptom assessment; symptom cluster; symptom management.