An increasing amount of evidence indicates the potential benefits of exercise with cancer patients. Research shows that patients participating in exercise programs, such as those provided in occupational or physical therapy, maintain a higher level of physical function and suffer less from psychological distress, fatigue and other treatment-related symptoms than control patients during chemotherapy or radiotherapy. In this study, a survey of oncology nurses in UK hospitals was conducted to determine the extent that exercise has a role in cancer care. The survey included a sample of 221 participants (62% response rate). Nineteen hospitals (9%) offered some kind of exercise program or class for patients. In seventeen hospitals (8%), opportunities for exercise available such as an exercise bicycle for inpatients. Sixty-five percent of nurses were in favor of providing an exercise rehabilitation service for patients. Barriers to implementation of such a program included limited resources and lack of awareness and expertise. Fifty-eight percent of nurses were unfamiliar with the published research on exercise for cancer rehabilitation and 33% reported receiving no training relating to exercise and health. Stevinson, C., & Fox, K.R. (2005). Role of exercise for cancer rehabilitation in UK hospitals: a survey of oncology nurses. European Journal of Cancer Care. 14, 63-69.
started by emking on 13 Aug 15
Stevinson, C., & Fox, K.R. (2005). Role of exercise for cancer rehabilitation in UK hospitals: a survey of oncology nurses. European Journal of Cancer Care. 14, 63-69.