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As I look at my schedule each morning and check to see who I will be seeing today and what needs to be done, I stop and consider the emotional and educational needs of not only the patient but also their families and the caregivers. Often I mention, communication is vital and I found that recently when working with one family where different family members came with the patient at each visit and it wasn't long before I realized that the different family members were not carrying the information to others and whatever was said one day, did not necessarily make to the other family members and so there was some misunderstanding and some information that just wasn't accurate at this present time as we are constantly changing and modifying to help the patient not only tolerate treatment better but also to get the best outcome for the patient as well. It is also important to consider if there are any hindrances to getting the information to those involved as there may be cultural influences as well as language, education and so much more that may no help facilitate the understanding that we have to help all involved get to that point. It is also important to supply the information at least three times and in different ways. Also something that needs evaluated is their understanding of the process and the healthcare system and that is not only the patient but everyone else involved in the care. It is important to stress healthy lifestyles and self care ideas need reinforced as this is a stressful time for all. Foremost, give the patient and family time to absorb what is happening and support them through this process. When and if the time comes to look at the end of treatment, you are better prepared to discuss end of life issues or survivorship concerns as deemed necessary by the outcomes of the patient. Patience, Time, Understanding, and Compassion, is vital and required when doing this work and as a person that is going through this, know that it is important you receive this. This leads to all to help make it a great day!
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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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