Author of

• 13022

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  MO27 - Patient Centred Care (ID 141)

  • Event: WCLC 2013
  • Type: Mini Oral Abstract Session
  • Track: Nurses
  • Presentations: 1
  • Moderators:C. Broderick, J. McPhelim
  • Coordinates: 10/30/2013, 10:30 - 12:00, Bayside 104, Level 1

  • 13028

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    MO27.06 - Feasibility of measurement of function in advanced cancer: Comparison of the 6-minute walk test, 2-minute walk test, isometric arm exercises and reading numbers aloud. (ID 267)

    11:05 - 11:10  |  Author(s): M. Agar
    • Abstract
    • Presentation
    • Slides

    Background
    The pattern in which functional decline in people living with advanced cancer occurs has been described as an initial period of reasonably stable function, followed by more rapid functional deterioration with a defined terminal phase. However little is known about the more subtle changes in function in the more advanced stages of cancer, and the role that breathlessness plays in functional changes. The aim of this pilot study is to compare the feasibility of conducting a range of standardised assessments at different levels of performance status in people with advanced cancer.

    Methods
    A consecutive cohort was recruited to a cross sectional study from three large palliative care units in metropolitan Sydney. Participants completed four breathlessness-inducing assessments: Six-minute Walk Test, Two-minute Walk Test, Isometric Upper limb Exercises and Reading Numbers Aloud. Performance status was assessed using the Australian Modified Karnofsky Performance Scale, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Scale and Life-Space Assessment. Comorbidity was identified using the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Four scales were used to assess breathlessness in each participant: Medical Research Council Dyspnoea Scale, Intensity and Unpleasantness of Breathlessness Visual Analogue Scales and Numerical Rating Scale for Breathlessness.

    Results
    The results of the pilot study have allowed a comparison of the four methods of breathlessness-inducing assessments by functional status in 37 people with advanced cancer. Median scores for performing breathlessness-inducing assessments by level of function where ≥80% of people could complete the assessments will also be presented.

    Conclusion
    This oral presentation will highlight the pilot study results and the feasibility of using these assessments in research and clinical practice, to improve the assessment of functional capacity and breathlessness in people living with advanced cancer. There is currently limited evidence into how function can be assessed in advanced cancer when breathlessness is present. This study adds to the evidence and knowledge base around the assessment of function in people living with advanced cancer.

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