Chemotherapy toxicity assessment using a self-report tool.
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To improve the data collection process for patients participating in clinical trials and to ensure patient safety. DATA SOURCES: Clinical trial toxicity assessment forms and clinical experience. DATA SYNTHESIS: A comprehensive self-report form was developed to collect information regarding the toxicity experienced. The form was designed to be easy for patients to complete and nurses/physicians to interpret. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary evaluation indicates that a self-administered form provides accurate and more complete information regarding chemotherapy toxicity than a simple patient interview. It is not limited by the setting. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The self-report form allows the nurse to assess chemotherapy toxicity and to make dose modifications as necessary, regardless of the patient's clinical trial status.