Nutritional Needs of Patients with Malignancies of the Head and Neck

ObjectivesTo provide strategies to manage nutrition in patients with head and neck cancer.Data SourcesEmpirical articles, reviews, books, and anecdotal evidence.ConclusionMajor nutrition issues include sore mouth/throat, difficulty swallowing, taste changes, dry mouth/thick saliva, constipation, nausea/vomiting, and decreased appetite.Implications for Nursing PracticeNurses are one of the main providers for patients with head and neck cancer and may be the first to recognize a nutritional issue. The oncology dietitian and nurse work closely together to manage the nutritional care of the patient.