Keywords

cancer-related fatigue, case study, fatigue, palliative care, symptom management

 

Authors

  1. Keeney, Cynthia Ellis MSN, RN
  2. Head, Barbara A. PhD, RN, CHPN, ACSW

Abstract

Cancer-related fatigue is a common debilitating symptom experienced by nearly all cancer patients. It is multifactorial in nature, with physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects. Cancer-related fatigue can limit patient involvement in social interactions, self-care activities, and the important work of closure at the end of life. It has been described as the most troublesome of symptoms for palliative care patients. This article addresses the phenomenon of cancer-related fatigue and presents an actual case illustrating palliative management of fatigue throughout the cancer continuum. Palliative management of fatigue in other life-threatening illnesses is also discussed.