| Secondary abstract: |
Introduction: Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. The treatment of lung cancer includes various methods, among which is the newer option of treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Despite promising results, immune checkpoint inhibitors bring specific side effects that require special management. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to explore the role of nurses in managing the side effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with lung cancer. The goal is to determine which measures nurses take to manage these side effects. Methods: A descriptive method was used, with a review of scientific and professional literature obtained through the PubMed and CINAHL databases. Articles with freely accessible full text, published between 2015 and 2023 in Slovenian and English, were included. Results: The most common side effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors include thyroid dysfunction (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism), fatigue, myocarditis, pulmonary embolism, skin rashes, pneumonitis, colitis, diarrhea, fever, and hepatitis. Nurses play a key role in managing these side effects. Their role includes educating patients about side effects and timely seeking interventions of, monitoring symptoms and recognizing early signs of side effects, assisting in the implementation of medical interventions, adjusting care according to the patient's needs, and coordinating care with other healthcare professionals for a comprehensive approach to patient care. They also implement specific measures to manage the adverse effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors. For dermatological adverse effects, they monitor skin conditions, implement preventive measures, and educate patients on proper skin care. In the case of gastrointestinal adverse effects, such as diarrhea, they monitor patient hydration, maintain electrolyte balance, and provide dietary counseling. Adverse effects related to the respiratory system require interventions such as assessing the patient's respiratory function, ensuring adequate oxygen levels in the blood, and preparing the patient for additional examinations. Endocrine adverse effects necessitate regular monitoring of thyroid hormones, symptom observation, and patient education on the importance of treatment. In the case of hepatitis, an adverse effect related to the liver system, nurses monitor liver function, provide nutritional counseling, and warn patients about the dangers of hepatotoxic substances. Discussion and Conclusion: Nurses play an important role in managing the side effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors by educating patients, helping them recognize adverse effects, and teaching them how to respond appropriately during, after, or upon completion of treatment. The findings of the thesis highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and the inclusion of nurses in the entire treatment process of patients with lung cancer. |