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Clinicians routinely perform bone marrow aspiration and biopsy (BMAB) to diagnose cancer and evaluate disease status; however, few studies address pain and distress with BMAB. A prospective descriptive–correlational design examined patients' (N = 152) ratings of pain intensity (numeric rating scale, 0-10) and distress (distress thermometer) at baseline and 5 min and 1 hr postprocedure. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and linear regression models. Mean postprocedure pain intensity at 5 min was moderate, 5.56 (SD = 3.03), and opioid use was associated with decreased pain at 1 hr (p <.001). Preprocedure administration of anxiolytics had no significant effect on distress reduction (p =.88). Being female, first-time biopsy, and increased preprocedure pain were significant predictors of postprocedure distress (p <.001). Treating anxiety alone may not be sufficient to lessen pain and distress. Individualized plans of care should be based on patient risk and response to procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors respond on a commentary made by doctor Antonia Arnaert on their study that describes the information and support needs of women following breast cancer treatment. They state that they acknowledge the multiple dimensions to the survivor experience and the importance of holistic approach to care. They agree on the point raised by Arnaert regarding the role being played by oncology nurses in all phases of the cancer trajectory.

Women living with and beyond breast cancer have special health care needs. Persistent physical and psychological symptoms such as fatigue, pain, sleep disturbances, and fear of recurrence as well as quality-of-life outcomes have been described in women during and after breast cancer. Much less information exists on the experience of women completing treatment. This study describes the information and support needs of women following breast cancer treatment. A semistructured interview guide designed by the research team was used to gather data. Major findings indicate that women continue to experience a variety of physical and psychological symptoms and have concrete information and support needs following therapy, including the need for information on persistent treatment effects, emotional distress, and lifestyle changes. Findings illustrate that there is need to provide comprehensive information and support to help women transition from breast cancer therapy. Additional research is needed to optimize approaches to providing posttreatment care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]