Abstract
The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of how opioid-induced constipation (OIC) influences pain management and quality of life in patients with cancer near the end of life. This was a descriptive study consisting of a national sample of HPNA members (n = 502) working with hospice or palliative care patients, cancer patients (n = 109) who were hospice eligible or with end-stage disease, and informal caregivers (n = 200) of cancer patients. Parallel survey instruments were developed and sent via the Internet to all three groups. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, and SDs. Results demonstrate that patients, family caregivers, and nurses all recognize the significance of OIC and its negative impact on both patients and families, and all three groups appreciate the importance of successful management of this distressing symptom.