The effect of the handheld fan on reducing chemotherapy-associated nausea in children

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) are significant adverse effects that greatly reduce the quality of life in children diagnosed with cancer.Aim: To evaluate the effects of using a handheld fan on the face to alleviate nausea and improve physiological parameters in children aged 7-18 years receiving their first chemotherapy treatment.Methods: This two-group randomized controlled trial with 53 children (experimental group n=29, control group n=24) was conducted between December 2022 and March 2023 at a pediatric oncology department. Data collection tools included an information form, observation form, and Baxter Retching Faces (BARF) nausea scale. Measurements of heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SpO2), and nausea level were taken in both groups immediately before chemotherapy and at 5, 30, and 60 minutes after the end of treatment. In the experimental group, the fan was applied three times for 5 minutes each at 15 cm from the child's face, immediately before each posttreatment measurement. Statistical analyses included the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon tests.Results: The experimental group demonstrated significantly lower BARF scores (p=0.005) and heart rate (p=0.022) at 60 minutes posttreatment compared to controls, with no significant differences at 5 or 30 minutes. The experimental group also showed decreased heart rate from pretreatment to 60 minutes (p=0.004). SpO₂ levels remained unchanged between groups (p>0.05).Conclusion: These preliminary findings suggest that the fan intervention may serve as a supportive strategy for managing nausea and improving the quality of life in pediatric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.