Symptom management: loss of concentration

Objective: To review the loss of the ability to concentrate in individuals with cancer, the risk factors, and nursing approaches to support and improve attentional functioning. Data sources: Published articles and books pertaining to concentration, central nervous system toxicity, attentional fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. Conclusions: Multiple factors related to cancer, its treatment, and the demands of a life-threatening illness increase the risk for loss of concentration and attentional fatigue. Implications for nursing practice: Nurses can assess potential loss of concentration by observation and objective and subjective measures. Attention can be conserved by reducing environmental demands and applying attention-restoring strategies.