Adult Cancer Pain: An Evidence-Based Update

Cancer often produces excruciating pain, which sends waves reverberating through the person's body, mind, spirit, and social interactions diminishing their quality of life and that of those closest to them. This updated review will summarize the latest research exploring the biologic mechanisms, psychosocial impact, and evidence-based approaches to treating cancer pain. Persons with cancer should not live or die with needless pain because of the detrimental effects it has on longevity and quality of life. This review intends to inform nurses of evidence-informed best practices they can use to prevent avoidable suffering that results from cancer pain.