Providing complete care to the cancer patient.
I enjoy the discussion of providing complete care to today’s cancer patients. When I say this I am referring to the fact that facing terminal illness puts patients in need of highly competent complete care that includes physiological treatment, symptom relief, emotional and spiritual support, and possibly end of life care. This type of care is of course not limited to cancer patients but the rigors of treatment, the symptoms it produces, and the chances of illness leading to death makes this a unique set of patients. As nurses of cancer patients we must find a way to treat our clients medically while still providing empathy and emotional support. It is also important to not instill false hope. It is a very delicate balance and I am always looking for ways to learn and improve my practice.
While this is a tough subject to research I find myself consistently drawn to it. I am going to be an oncology nurse and like most people, I have a personal connection to the disease. When researching this topic I found that there is still so much more work to be done in cancer in general. From research to medications this is a constantly changing field. I am excited to see some organizations stepping up and addressing issues that others don’t like infertility, and physical fitness for survivors. I am very excited to see how I can implement and provide some of these resources to my patients in the future.
Proquest Database
Tamura, ., Keiko, ., Kikui, ., Kazuko, ., & Watanabe, . (2006, June). Caring for the spiritual pain of patients with advanced cancer: A phenomenological approach to the lived experience. Palliative and Supportive Care, 4(2), 96-189. doi:http://search.proquest.com/docview/214838783?accountid=14196
This is a research article that was conducted to investigate the spiritual trials that patients face when suffering from terminal illness. The study was used to determine how nurses can best care for and provide spiritual support to cancer patients who were in a palliative care situation.
OVIDsp database from SBU libraries
Deshields, T. L., & Nanna, S. K. (2010, September). Providing Care for the "Whole Patient" in the Cancer Setting: The Psycho-Oncology Consultation Model of Patient Care. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, 17(3), 57-249. Retrieved March 28, 2012, from OVIDsp (10.1007/s10880-010-9208-1).
This paper discusses and advocates for caring for the “whole patient” in clinical work with cancer patients. It discussess goals to work on with the patient such as: reducing stress and symptoms, building on the patients strengths, working on healthy coping strategies, and addressing education needs. The paper also gives specific interventions that can be used when working with cancer patients.
Overview of nutrition in cancer care.
I selected this site based on the fact that is a government moderated cite. It’s author is a medical doctor who previously wond the nobel prize for study in genetics related to cancer. The site also has a structured campus in Bethesda, Maryland.
This site gives a host of valuable information for cancer patients and providers. This page focuses on nutrition in relation to anorexia, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting related to treatment and disease. They give suggestions for how to treat these issues and as well as food choices that may help the patient gain strength and prevent muscle wasting.
Treatments and side effects
The American Cancer Society is a national website and is also associated with local chapters around the country. They are known for the Relay for Life events and also have a toll-free number where you can reach them at any time. This organization provides support to many Americans facing cancer.
This page provides an overview of treatment types, clinical trials, guide to cancer drugs, and alternative therapies. It also addresses the physical and emotional side effects that are part of undergoing treatment for cancer. Suggestions are provided for how to deal with these problems from a patient and caregiver standpoint.
Oncology Nursing Society: Clinical Resources
This site is run by advanced practice nurses, most holding at least a Master’s degree or P.H.D. This site covers topics most often requested by nurses. It is monitored and updated on a constant basis.
A site that provides various links to information that will help in the clinical setting. The clinical resourses are vast and are not limited to exercise, oral mucositis, oral therapy, safe handling of cancer patients, sleep/wake disturbances, and symptoms specific to certain types of cancer. This site is geared specifically for nurses working with cancer patients.
Get help
I am a bit partial to this organization because I fundraise for them and attend their annual event in Austin, Texas. I know who runs the place and where the money goes. LIVESTRONG was voted in the top ten charities that appropriate their funds properly in 2011. They provide onsite counseling and services an their headquarters in Austin and phone support for people who are out of the area.
LIVESTRONG addresses some issues that most organizations don’t including infertility, post-cancer sexuality, global awareness of cancer stigma, and support for young adults with cancer. They are willing to help you understand your options for treatments and find clinical trials that may suit your needs. The organization can help with healthy eating, what to expect during care, offer financial support, and offer a free journal and planning guide to aide in managing treatment.
No comments:
Post a Comment