From the Guidelines
When addressing a potential cancer diagnosis in nursing, the Uncertainty in Illness Theory by Merle Mishel provides the most effective framework, as it acknowledges the significant uncertainty patients face and its impact on their psychological well-being and coping abilities. This theory is particularly relevant in the context of cancer diagnosis, where patients experience a high level of uncertainty and emotional distress, as highlighted in the study by 1. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing emotional, social, and familial distress in patients with cancer, and the role of specialty palliative care teams in providing support and guidance.
Key Components of the Theory
- Recognizing the uncertainty and emotional distress experienced by patients facing a potential cancer diagnosis
- Implementing a three-phase approach to address patient needs: providing clear information, offering emotional support, and connecting patients with resources
- Assessing patient understanding, support systems, and coping mechanisms to provide personalized interventions
- Documenting patient emotional state and comprehension level to ensure sensitive and effective care
Application in Practice
Nurses should prioritize reducing uncertainty and promoting a sense of control for patients facing a potential cancer diagnosis. This can be achieved by providing clear, honest information about diagnostic procedures and timelines, as well as offering emotional support and connecting patients with resources such as support groups or counseling services. The study by 1 highlights the importance of introducing specialty palliative care teams soon after diagnosis to address social and emotional distress. By applying the Uncertainty in Illness Theory, nurses can provide effective support and guidance to patients and their families during this challenging time.
From the Research
Nursing Theories for Cancer Diagnosis
The following nursing theories and interventions can be applied to a potential cancer diagnosis:
- Holistic needs assessment, which entails a structured review of patient needs as articulated by the patient, leading to a care plan grounded in issues pertinent to that patient 2
- Nurse coaching, a practice that has the potential to significantly influence care of patients with cancer, providing holistic support to patients and helping to relieve cancer-related distress 3
- Palliative care, which is mandated as part of comprehensive cancer care, addressing the physical, psychosocial, spiritual, and emotional domains of care 4
- Nursing care planning based on diagnoses, such as those recommended by the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association (NANDA), which can help identify patient needs and develop effective care plans 5
Effective Nursing Interventions
Effective nursing interventions for patients with cancer include:
- Educational nursing interventions, which can improve patient knowledge and reduce symptom severity 6
- Psychosocial nursing interventions, which can have a significant effect on spiritual well-being, meaning of life, fatigue, and sleep 6
- Psychological nursing interventions, which can reduce cancer-related fatigue 6
- Nursing interventions supporting patients' coping, which can have a significant impact on anxiety, distress, fatigue, sleep, dyspnoea, and functional ability 6
- Activity-based interventions, which may prevent cancer-related fatigue 6