Dodd Mj

A meta-analysis of the sensitivity of various neuropsychological tests used to detect chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in patients with breast cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To identify which neuropsychological tests have been used to evaluate chemotherapy-induced impairment in various domains of cognitive function in patients with breast cancer and to determine the sensitivity of each of the tests through estimation of effect size. DATA SOURCES Original studies published from 1966-June 2006. DATA SYNTHESIS Although an array of neuropsychological tests are available to measure the various domains of cognitive function, information is lacking regarding the sensitivity and specificity of the tests to detect changes in cognitive function from chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis provides initial data on the sensitivity of some neuropsychological tests to determine chemotherapy-induced changes in cognitive function in patients with breast cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING The identification of sensitive neuro-psychological tests is crucial to further understanding of chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments.

Online exclusive: functional integration of nursing research into a pediatric oncology cooperative group: finding common ground.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To provide a brief description of the historic role of nursing and nursing research in the culture of previous pediatric oncology cooperative groups and compare the research language used in cooperative groups with the language used in nursing research. DATA SOURCES: Published empirical, clinical, and methodologic reports. DATA SYNTHESIS: The culture and language of nursing research differ from those of medical research and the pediatric oncology cooperative group, the Childrens Oncology Group (COG). Different approaches exist to integrate nursing research priorities into the priorities of COG, including freestanding protocols, companion protocols, and research objectives included in therapeutic protocols. CONCLUSIONS: Full integration of nursing research into COG is feasible but dependent on recognition of cultural and language differences among researchers. Integration will be demonstrated by the number of concepts and protocols contributed to or developed by active nurses in COG. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Significant advances exist for nurses conducting research in COG. These research efforts are facilitated by a familiarity with the science language used by other disciplines in COG and an understanding of COGs research processes. Increased interdisciplinary scientific collaborations involving nurses in COG particularly benefit pediatric patients with cancer.