Effect of Using Ginger Tea on Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting among women with Cancer

Abstract

Abstract: Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) remains a significant reason of distress and dissatisfaction among clients getting cancer treatment. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of ginger tea on chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting in women with cancer. Study Design: A quasi-experimental research design was used in this study. Sampling: A purposive sample of 100 women with breast and gynecological cancer. Setting: This study was conducted at the outpatient clinics of oncology and nuclear medicine department affiliated to Ain Shams University Hospital. Tools: Three tools were used for the data collection in this study; I. A Patient interview questionnaire included patients’ demographic and clinical data, II. Simplified form of Rhodes index of nausea, vomiting and retching assessment scale, to assess the frequency occurrence, severity, distress associated with of vomiting. III. Patients ‘satisfaction questionnaire to assess women’s satisfaction toward the administration of ginger tea, Results: regarding the age of intervention group 52% were more than 50 years, while 40% of control group between 35-49, (34%). both intervention and control group were married (72% and 70%)respectively. More than half of participants in the intervention and control group were worked (60%, 54%) respectively. Regarding vomiting and nausea experience score, there was no significant difference between both groups before intervention and during the first 6, 12& 24 hours after chemotherapy. However, there was a statistically significant association in intervention (ginger tea group) and control group on the second day, third day and fourth day post chemotherapy (p=<0.001). Conclusions: The current study showed that ginger tea is considered as a safe herbal medicine and effective therapeutic of choice in the avoidance of chemotherapy induced vomiting among breast and gynecological cancer women. Recommendations Prospective studies and longer periods of follow up are also helpful to assess the efficacy of ginger supplementation on the prevalence of CINV symptoms in patients receiving multiple cycles of chemotherapy.