Individualized Education for Bortezomib-Related Symptom Management in Multiple Myeloma

Investigation of the Effect of Education Given to Patients With Multiple Myeloma on Symptom Severity

This study evaluated an individualized, nurse-delivered education program for managing treatment-related symptoms in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma receiving bortezomib for the first time. A total of 40 patients participated. Twenty patients received two individual education sessions in addition to routine care, while 20 patients in the control group received routine care. The education focused on recognition, prevention, and management of common bortezomib-related symptoms, including peripheral neuropathy, pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, anemia, bleeding risk, infection risk, and dyspnea. Treatment-related symptoms were assessed before treatment and education (baseline), on day 21, and on day 63. The study aimed to evaluate whether individualized patient education was associated with differences in the occurrence and severity of treatment-related symptoms over time.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 years or older
• Newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma
• Scheduled to receive bortezomib 1.3 mg/m² on days 1, 4, 8, and 11
• Able to communicate
• Able to read and write
• Willing to participate in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• Younger than 18 years
• Presence of a disease or condition that could affect the nervous system, such as brain metastasis or diabetes
• Cognitive impairment
• Unstable vital signs
• History of alcohol use
• Communication impairment
• Unwilling to participate in the study