Prevention and Management of Oral Mucositis in Patients With Cancer

ObjectivesTo review current evidence that applies to the development of a nursing plan of care for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis related to cytotoxic therapy.Data SourcesResearch studies, review articles, evidence-based guidelines, web-based material, and clinical experience.ConclusionAlthough high-level research evidence regarding mucositis is limited, use of multiple types of evidence in developing a structured plan of care facilitates improved patient outcomes and the advancement of the current body of knowledge.Implications for Nursing PracticeNurses play a key role in the identification and use of evidence to guide the care of patients at risk for cytotoxic therapy-related oral mucositis.