Research Alert
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) can have a profound effect on cancer treatment experiences and is associated with negative effects on daily life and quality of life. Among patients receiving chemotherapy, up to 80% experience CINV, which is reportedly one of the most distressing side effects of treatment. Many providers underestimate the toll and severity of CINV, and this results in symptom management inadequacies. Despite the use of antiemetics, a large proportion of patients experience breakthrough CINV. As frontline care providers, nurses are in a unique position to identify problems and offer solutions. By utilizing an evidence-based approach, the profession has an opportunity to positively impact patient care. Our team was empowered by our institution to kindle and fan the spark of inquiry, which led to this nurse-driven initiative to incorporate digital P6 acupressure as a standard of care for patients receiving emetogenic chemotherapy. Literature supports P6 acupressure in conjunction with pharmacotherapy to reduce suffering in the chemotherapy patient experiencing CINV. It is a low-cost, effective, and teachable intervention that has no side effects and can be performed anywhere.
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