Factors That May Predict Sexuality Changes in Men with Newly-Diagnosed Acute Leukemia Cancer: Fatigue, Pain, Distress
Date
2015-05
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
Background: The diagnosis of acute leukemia abruptly changes the lives of males and their significant others. Leukemia is a disease that requires intense treatment, unfamiliar settings, and a lifestyle that is far from routine. Significant psychosocial problems are understudied and often overlooked in newly-diagnosed males with acute leukemia. Distress levels are elevated (M=3.7, SD=2.8) with significant levels of fatigue (P<0.05), and significantly reduced libido (P<0.05).
Methods: A longitudinal design with repeated measures was used to measure the level of distress, level of fatigue, and libido of male patients newly-diagnosed with acute leukemia (N=100) to determine if there were significant correlations to explain abrupt decreased in libido. A self-report survey was completed every three months from diagnosis/induction therapy and into consolidation therapy. Instruments included the Distress Thermometer and its 38-item problem list, demographic questionnaire, Brief Fatigue Inventory, and sexual function and urogenital questionnaires.
Statistical Analyses: Descriptive data will provide frequencies and percentages related to categorical variables; Chi-square will be used to determine differences, with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Analysis of variance will examine potential relationships between and within the three continuous variables, with Tukey post hoc tests.
Implications for Practice: Multiple bodily functions are altered as a result of induction chemotherapy for acute leukemia. Examination of relationships between distress, level of fatigue, and libido may identify the underlying cause of decreased libido. It is important for nurses to understand their patients’ levels of distress and sources that can evolve with a new diagnosis of cancer, including sexual changes.
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Undergraduate Ohio State University Nursing Thesis