Assessment and Management of Cancer-Related Fatigue

Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common symptoms experienced by patients receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. It is subjective in nature; therefore, assessing the extent of its interference with the patient's quality of life and functional status is important. Assessment should also include contributing factors as well as underlying etiologies. Clinicians need to reassess and more than likely readjust the patient's fatigue management along the cancer continuum. Educating the patient to effectively manage other symptoms such as pain in addition to proper nutrition and hydration, exercise, and energy conservation will help empower patients to manage their fatigue.