Make it a better day! S
There are many things that we screen for when a patient comes in the door including but not limited to, vital signs, weight, symptoms, side effects, physical concerns, financial issues and included is now a Psychosocial Distress Screening. So why in heavens name do we look at that? Bottom line, cancer is more than the disease and treatment, it is how it effects you socially, financially, psychologically and even behavioral. Your way of handling stress and distress does not change just because you have cancer and many of us are still looking for better ways to cope with stress. We need to recognize the stress that is affecting the patient as it impacts everything else and each problem can lead to moderate to severe issues if not identified and addressed. You already feel hopeless when you get the diagnosis and the whole process of cancer is out of your control once that diagnosis comes in. It is imperative that as healthcare workers, that these issues need addressed and help initiated. We may be looking at treatment decisions or coping with body image changes and there may be sex and grief counseling help needed just as much as needing financial assistance for food, housing, even caregiver support and career issues related to the diagnosis and treatment. This screening tool is important in monitoring the patient and recognizing the need to have the patient's stress and distress monitored and documented as well as treated promptly. Years of teaching, I would always mention that no two patients are alike even though they may be experiencing the same illness. Home life, and work, as well as families and their dynamics and financial and social and so many other things influence how you are going to get through this period of illness. So, next time you are in, be honest and open as help is waiting and your input helps us identify your needs and get you the help that is necessary.
Make it a better day! S
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AuthorMy name is Sue Kilburn and I am a clinical nurse breast cancer educator at the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Archives
March 2015
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