For this assessment select an issue of interest an apply the PICO(T) process to define the question and research it.
PICO(T) is an acronym that helps researchers and practitioners define aspects of a potential study or investigation.
It stands for:
- P – Patient/population/problem.
- I – Intervention.
- C – Comparison (of potential interventions, typically).
- O – Outcome(s).
- T – Time frame (if time frame is relevant).
The end goal of applying PICO(T) is to develop a question that can help guide the search for evidence (Boswell & Cannon, 2015). From this perspective, a PICO(T) question can be a valuable starting point for nurses who are starting to apply an evidence-based model or EBPs. By taking the time to precisely define the areas in which the nurse will be looking for evidence, searches become more efficient and effective. Essentially, by precisely defining the types of evidence within specific areas, the nurse will be more likely to discover relevant and useful evidence during their search.
INSTRUCTIONS
For this assessment, select an issue of interest an apply the PICO(T) process to define the question and research it.
Your initial goal is to define the population, intervention, comparison, and outcome. In some cases, a time frame is relevant and you should include that as well, when writing a question you can research related to your issue of interest. After you define your question, research it, and organize your initial findings, select the two sources of evidence that seem the most relevant to your question and analyze them in more depth. Specifically, interpret each source’s specific findings and best practices related to your issues, as well explain how the evidence would help you plan and make decisions related to your question.
If you need some structure to organize your initial thoughts and research, the Blank PICO Worksheet document (accessible from CQ University Australia’s Evidence Based Practice page) might be helpful.
In your submission, make sure you address the following:
- Define a practice issue to be explored via a PICO(T) approach.
- Identify sources of evidence that could be potentially effective in answering a PICO(T) question.
- Explain the findings from articles or other sources of evidence.
- Explain the relevance of the findings from chosen sources of evidence to making decision related to a PICO(T) question.
- Communicate using writing that is clear, logical, and professional with correct grammar and spelling using current APA style.
EVIDENCE-BASED PROJECT PART 3: CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF RESEARCH
**Defining a Practice Issue using PICO(T):**
**Population/Problem:**
Patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer.
**Intervention:**
Integrative therapies (e.g., acupuncture, massage, yoga) as complementary treatments to alleviate chemotherapy-induced side effects.
**Comparison:**
Standard supportive care without integrative therapies.
**Outcome:**
Reduction in chemotherapy-induced side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pain.
**Time Frame:**
Throughout the duration of chemotherapy treatment.
**PICO(T) Question:**
In patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer, do integrative therapies (acupuncture, massage, yoga) compared to standard supportive care alone result in a reduction of chemotherapy-induced side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pain throughout the duration of treatment?
**Research and Initial Findings:**
- **Source 1:** A systematic review published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology evaluated the effectiveness of integrative therapies in managing chemotherapy-induced side effects in cancer patients. The review included studies examining acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga interventions. The findings indicated that integrative therapies were associated with significant reductions in chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and pain compared to standard supportive care alone. However, the review highlighted the need for further well-designed randomized controlled trials to validate these findings across different cancer types and treatment regimens.
- **Source 2:** A randomized controlled trial published in Cancer Nursing investigated the impact of acupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients. The study enrolled breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and randomized them to receive either acupuncture or standard supportive care. The results showed that patients who received acupuncture experienced a statistically significant reduction in both the severity and frequency of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting compared to those receiving standard supportive care alone. Additionally, acupuncture was well-tolerated with no significant adverse effects reported.
**Analysis of Evidence:**
Both sources of evidence support the effectiveness of integrative therapies, specifically acupuncture, in reducing chemotherapy-induced side effects among breast cancer patients. Integrative therapies offer a promising approach to enhance symptom management and improve the overall quality of life during cancer treatment. The findings from these studies provide valuable insights for healthcare providers in planning and implementing complementary interventions to alleviate chemotherapy-related symptoms.
**Relevance to Decision-Making:**
The evidence suggests that incorporating integrative therapies, such as acupuncture, into the care plan for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy can lead to significant improvements in symptom management and overall well-being. Healthcare providers can use this evidence to inform their decision-making process and offer patients additional supportive care options to optimize treatment outcomes. By integrating evidence-based integrative therapies into practice, nurses can enhance patient-centered care and promote better treatment experiences for individuals undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.
For this assessment select an issue of interest an apply the PICO(T) process to define the question and research it.
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