Symptom Science and Supportive Care

About Symptom Science and Supportive Care Research

Faculty in this signature area advance nursing science to improve symptom management, supportive care, and palliative care across the lifespan. Their research aims to reduce suffering, enhance quality of life, and promote well-being for all individuals and families facing acute, chronic, or life-limiting conditions.

This work spans diverse populations and settings to understand symptom mechanisms and develop interventions that support coping, communication, and goal-concordant care. Representative areas of inquiry include:

• Investigating the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and environmental mechanisms of symptoms;
• Developing and testing interventions to reduce symptom burden and improve well-being;
• Advancing palliative and supportive care practices for children, adults, and older adults;
• Strengthening evidence-based communication between clinicians and patients/families to support shared decision-making;
• Promoting equitable access to research-informed, high-quality care across illness trajectories and care settings.

Explore faculty profiles to learn more about specific research interests and studies in this area.