Article

Translating Research on the Distress Thermometer Into Practice

Susan S. Tavernier

distress, translational research, evidence-based practice
CJON 2014, 18(1), 26-30. DOI: 10.1188/14.CJON.S1.26-30

Distress is commonly experienced by people with cancer. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) developed a guideline for screening and managing distress in 1999 and has updated the guideline on an annual basis ever since. Using the five-phase framework for translational research, this article summarizes research findings related to the guideline and associated distress thermometer for each phase of translational research. The NCCN Distress Management Guideline is a useful tool to screen for and manage distress. However, additional research is needed, particularly in the areas of impact on outcomes of importance to patients.

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