PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES: To critically examine the evidence for acupuncture and acupressure in the management of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in adult patients with cancer. DATA SOURCES: 18 databases were searched for randomized, controlled trials published in English and Chinese through April 2014. DATA SYNTHESIS: Given the heterogeneity of data, meta-analysis was not conducted. A six-step thematic analysis method was used to synthesize the results. CONCLUSIONS: Although results are inconclusive, acupuncture and acupressure tend to be effective in relieving CRF, with the former producing a greater improvement. Future research is recommended to contribute further evidence. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Nurses should know about the relative effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure in the management of CRF to educate and support their patients.

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