Acute chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

Acute Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) are the most frequent adverse reactions reported among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, and they can significantly impair a patient's quality of life. CINV is a complex pathophysiology that is still not precisely understood, but it is generally believed to involve pharmacological, physiological, and psychosocial factors. It is important for nurses to be knowledgeable about the risk assessment, prevention, and management of CINV.

Risk Factors for CINV

There are numerous risk factors that are associated with the development of CINV in patients receiving chemotherapy. These can be divided into pharmacological, physiological, and psychosocial factors. For instance, certain types of chemotherapy, such as high-dose chemotherapy or treatment with multiple drugs, are known to be more likely to cause CINV. Additionally, certain physiological factors, such as age, body weight, and gender, are known to increase the risk of CINV. Finally, psychosocial factors, such as stress and other psychological conditions, can be risk factors for CINV.

Prevention of CINV

Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution for the prevention of CINV, there are several strategies that have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of CINV. These include:

• Administering anti-emetic drugs prior to chemotherapy
• Managing stress, anxiety, and other psychological conditions
• Limiting fluids and avoiding alcohol before chemotherapy
• Eating small, bland meals throughout the day
• Staying well hydrated during chemotherapy
• Eating easy-to-digest foods such as crackers and bananas
• Avoiding certain odors and spicy or pungent foods

Treatment of CINV

If prevention strategies are unsuccessful, there are numerous pharmacological treatments available for the treatment of CINV. These include:

• Anti-emetic drugs
• Steroids
• Antihistamines
• Tranquilizers
• Antidepressants
• Anticonvulsants
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

In addition to pharmacological treatments, other treatments for CINV may include relaxation techniques, guided imagery, distraction therapy, and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, and hypnosis.

It is important to note that the risk of CINV is individualized and must be assessed on an individual basis. It is also important to remember that both prevention and treatment strategies are not 100% effective and must be tailored to the individual needs of each patient.