ANALYSIS OF THE CONCEPT OF “SYMPTOM CLUSTER” IN HEALTH CARE

thị thanh trà nguyễn1, Bich Huong Nguyen, Phuong Ngoc Phuong, Du Khanh Nguyen, Thi Hang Pham, Thi Hoai Phan, Tu Minh Hoang Le, Thi Phuong Pham, Thi Hoa Phung, Minh Trang Ta, Ngoc Quynh Nguyen2, Hiep Pham Van3,
1 Bệnh viện Tai mũi họng TW
2 Trung tâm Y tế khu vực Sông Lô, tỉnh Phú Thọ
3 Bệnh viện Tai Mũi Họng Trung Ương

Main Article Content

Abstract

This conceptual analysis aims to clarify the concept of “Symptom Cluster” – a stable group of two or more symptoms that coexist, interact with each other and are distinct from other symptom clusters. The concept of “Symptom Cluster” is an essential tool to help nurses transition from single symptom management to multi-symptom management. Although the concept of “Symptom Cluster” has been extensively studied, especially in cancer care, its definition remains vague, hindering its clinical application. Applying the conceptual analysis model, “Symptom Cluster” is defined by core attributes including coexistence, interaction or common etiology, stability and clinical relevance. The identification of “Symptom Clusters” has serious clinical consequences, including reduced quality of life, reduced survival, and increased mortality. Therefore, it is important to clarify the concept of “Symptom Clusters” so that nurses can perform a more comprehensive assessment (thanks to warning symptoms) and apply effective interventions (such as non-pharmacological therapies) to manage multiple symptoms simultaneously through a single intervention.

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