Nursing Considerations for Patients With Sarcoma on Pazopanib Therapy

Background: Pazopanib was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) in 2012. Because of the scarcity of effective treatments for advanced STS, pazopanib has become commonly prescribed.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge level of nurses regarding the safe administration of pazopanib, as well as management of its side effects. The study was also intended to examine the consistency of patient education about pazopanib.

Methods: A 12-question online survey was completed by six nurses working in the outpatient sarcoma department of a National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center. The survey included questions about patient education, including side-effect management and medication safety.

Findings: The survey revealed that most nurses were consistent with best practices surrounding pazopanib teaching and side-effect management. However, many differences were observed, and patient education regarding drug interactions and the safe administration of pazopanib is lacking. Further standardization of nursing practice in this regard would greatly benefit patients taking pazopanib.