Symptom cluster: management and advanced practices in oncology nursing

ABSTRACT Objective: To present the definition of “symptom cluster” in cancer patients and to reflect on the theory, assessment, outcomes, and interventions for symptom management, based on the perspective of advanced practices in oncology nursing. Method: Theoretical-reflective study that presents and discusses possibilities for managing “symptom clusters” through advanced practices in oncology nursing. Results: The term “symptom cluster” can be defined as a set of two or more related symptoms. The theoretical concepts and models that can help in its understanding are: Theory of Unpleasant Symptoms, Theory of Symptom Management, concept of self-efficacy and Theory of symptom self-management. Advanced practice nurses have the skills to manage “symptom clusters,” optimizing outcomes and positively influencing the quality of life of cancer patients. Conclusion: Advanced practice nurses have the essential characteristics to design, to implement and to evaluate intervention protocols aimed at the management of “symptom clusters” in cancer patients.