The Prevention of Mouth Sores in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Doxorubicin Using Oral Cryotherapy
Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion
Winter 12-2027
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Rebecca Tsusaki
Abstract
PURPOSE
The purpose of the evidence-based project is to implement and evaluate oral cryotherapy to reduce and prevent incidence and severity of chemotherapy-induced mucositis in breast cancer patients receiving Doxorubicin at a large cancer hospital in Southeast Texas.
BACKGROUND
Chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis is a common and painful complication among breast cancer patients receiving Doxorubicin leading to difficulty eating, treatment delays and a decrease in patient satisfaction and adherence to treatment regimen. Despite strong evidence supporting oral cryotherapy, its use is seldomly used in many oncology settings.
METHODOLOGY
A pre- and post- intervention quality improvement design guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) framework was used. Baseline date was obtained through chart review while post intervention data was over a 12–16-week implementation period. Eligible patients used cryotherapy during their infusion in which the occurrence of mucositis was assessed at subsequent infusions using the World Health Organization (WHO) Mucositis Scale.
RESULTS
The initiation of cryotherapy during this treatment plan allowed for a >90% decrease in the presence of oral mucositis, improving patient satisfaction and comfort. This intervention has continued to be used since the project begun and will be integrated into clinical practice.
IMPLICATIONS
Standardizing oral cryotherapy for this regimen will ultimately improve symptom management, support chemotherapy adherence, and enhance outcomes. Continued evaluation and integration into clinical workflows will promote sustainability and broader adoption of this intervention.
Keywords
oral cryotherapy, breast neoplasm, oral ulcers, doxorubicin, anthracycline chemotherapy
Recommended Citation
Imani Wright, "The Prevention of Mouth Sores in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Doxorubicin Using Oral Cryotherapy" (2027). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 153.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/153