Purpose/objectives: To evaluate changes in fatigue at the time of diagnosis (Time 1) and two weeks after the completion of radiation therapy (Time 2) and to determine the relationship between fatigue and quality of life (QOL) at each time interval in patients with glioblastoma multiformae (GBM).
Design: Descriptive study to evaluate fatigue and QOL.
Setting: Neuro-oncology clinic for accrual. Clinic, home, or office for patients interviews.
Sample: 60 adult patients diagnosed with GBM who received radiation therapy.
Methods: Participants completed a demographic data sheet, the Profile of Mood States, and the Multidimensional Quality of Life Scale-Cancer Version 2 at both time points.
Main research variables: Fatigue and QOL.
Findings: Fatigue significantly increased from Time 1 to Time 2 (t = -2.69, p = 0.009). Increases in fatigue were associated with significant decreases in QOL at Time 1 (r = -0.57) and Time 2 (r = -0.60).
Conclusions: Patients with GBM experience increases in fatigue after radiation therapy. Increases in fatigue are associated with decreases in almost all aspects of patients' QOL.
Implications for nursing practice: Nurses must provide patients with information about the occurrence of fatigue during radiation therapy and recommend interventions to deal with this devastating symptom.