Support guide for symptom assessment in patients with myeloproliferative syndromes using the mpn-10 scale

Abstract

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (PH-) – Myelofibrosis, Polycythemia Vera and Essential Thrombocythemia – represents a heterogeneous disorders of the hematopoietic system associated with debilitating symptoms with consequent reduction of the quality of life and negative impact on the daily activities of of patients. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, based on the Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Symptom Assessment Form, Total Symptom Score (MPN-SAF TSS) tool, were initiated by some Portuguese hospitals and began monitoring and, systematically, evaluating the symptoms of these patients. This tool, validated for the Portuguese language, has been applied with the support of the nursing teams. In Nurses Focus Group model they discuss the main challenges in using the MPN-10 assessment tool, following which the present guide was developed. The most relevant aspects of the application of this tool were identified: 1) to take into account that it is a self-completion scale; 2) the tool aims to assess the impact of the symptom using numerical categories and 3) the healthcare professionals should not refer / induce the patient for comparison with previous evaluations. To facilitate the understanding of the MPN-10 and methodology of filling by the patient, additional information was developed on each of the symptoms for use by the health professional at the moment of information/clarification to the patient.