Flurbiprofen
Flurbiprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Intravenous flurbiprofen was evaluated in patients with cancer for its effectiveness in relieving breakthrough pain. The administration of flurbiprofen in the perioperative period among women with breast cancer was evaluated for its potential effect on chronic pain after breast surgery.
Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is in a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of antidepressant. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Fluoxetine in particular has been evaluated for use in hot flashes. SSRIs in general have been evaluated for use in depression.
Fentanyl (Subcutaneous)
Fentanyl is an opioid analgesic drug. Subcutaneous fentanyl can be considered for patients in whom subcutaneous morphine is contraindicated. It has been investigated as an intervention to relieve breakthrough dyspnea in patients who have cancer. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the different formulations for these medications, the length of their half-life, and the onset of action.
Fat Graft
Fat tissue grafting has been done by injecting fat tissue that is obtained via liposuction. This procedure was examined in women with severe scare retraction and postmastectomy pain for its effect on pain.
Fan/Increasing Airflow
Increasing airflow and movement to the face has been suggested as an approach to relieve breathlessness. Use of a handheld fan for this purpose was evaluated for management of dyspnea.
Family-Focused Grief Therapy
Family-focused grief therapy is a model of care provision in which families are screened at the time of beginning palliative care services to identify those at risk for negative psychosocial outcomes as a result of relationships. The therapy intervention involves assisting families to use strengths and to cope (Kissane et al., 2006)
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is a nonsurgical outpatient procedure that utilizes sound waves to treat soft tissue injuries. Typically, it is used to treat plantar fasciitis .
Extended Post-Operative Antibiotics
The provision of antibiotics for days after surgery, in addition to intraoperative administration of antibiotics, was examined in patients with cancer for effectiveness in the prevention of surgical site infection.
Extended and Sustained Release Opioids
Sustained-release and extended-release opioids, which make use of time-release formulation, take effect within a specific time. Sustained-release drugs remain in the bloodstream in a stable amount for a longer time than do immediate-release opioids. As a result, patients do not have to take sustained-release medications as often as immediate-release drugs. Sustained-release opioids have been evaluated in the context of chronic cancer-related pain, peripheral neuropathy, and for the relief of dyspnea.
Expressive Writing/Emotional Disclosure/Journaling
Expressive writing/journaling is the art of putting thoughts and feelings on paper. Writing about negative emotional experiences may improve physical and psychological health, and writing about deep feeling regarding personal stressors can enhance well-being and health.