Nurses' perceptions of antiemetic effectiveness.

PURPOSES

To determine which antiemetics are being used with ondansetron (Zofran, Cerenex Pharmaceuticals, Research Triangle Park, NC) for patients receiving emetogenic chemotherapy, identify the more frequently administered antiemetic regimens, and ascertain nurses' perceptions of the effectiveness of these regimens.

DESIGN

Descriptive survey.

SETTING

Continental United States.

SAMPLE

A random sample (N = 962) of Oncology Nursing Society members who designate themselves as practicing in the area of chemotherapy.

METHODS

The Antiemetic Drug(s)/Drug Combination(s) Inventory, an open-ended questionnaire soliciting information on first- and second-line antiemetic regimens for emetogenic chemotherapy protocols, was mailed to 5,950 oncology nurses. Descriptive statistics and nondistributive analysis were used to analyze the data.

FINDINGS

Ondansetron was used in 7 of 10 antiemetic regimens, which accounted for 50% of the most frequently used regimens. Nurses rated first-line antiemetic combinations as highly effective. Ondansetron alone was ranked as the seventh most effective first-line antiemetic for cisplatin protocols and fifth for noncisplatin protocols. Nurses noted limitations of ondansetron use, which included delayed nausea and vomiting and the drug's high cost.

CONCLUSIONS

Study participants indicated that a variety of drugs were used in antiemetic regimens. Ondansetron use has improved the control of post-chemotherapy nausea, vomiting, and retching.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Antiemetics are administered regularly in the hospital and home to decrease chemotherapy-related nausea, vomiting, and retching. Managing these side-effects requires superior assessment skills and extensive knowledge of pharmacologic actions. Patient and family education on antiemetics is essential in light of increased administration of outpatient chemotherapy.