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PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE: HOW NURSING PERSONNEL CAN PROVIDE CARE TO ONCOLOGY CLIENTS.
Poonam Sharma1, S.S. Kaushik2
Abstract:
ABSTRACT
Cases of cancer are increasing rapidly worldwide. Psychosocial care is a very important aspect in improving the quality of life that can decrease the overall load of cost to the health care system. This is clearly an important goal in healthcare management. Nursing professionals are the key members of the health care team. Oncology nurses interact with oncology patients across throughout the continuum of care through treatment and symptom management. They play a multifaceted role as a direct caregiver, educator, consultant, administrator, researcher and in administering complex chemotherapies. Nursing personnel involved in chemotherapy, biotherapy, radiation therapy, cancer genetic counselling, palliative care, in bone marrow transplant. Cancer patients deal with prolonged distress and a lot of suffering from the disease as well as from treatment. As the nursing staff, we are 24 hours available to the patient as well as with their caregiver. As an important member of the healthcare team, we can provide a good psychosocial care which can be beneficial in improving the quality of life of cancer patients. Nursing care can be provided to the patients for early cancer prevention to the detection of signs and symptoms.