The role of the oncology nurse varies depending on where and what kind of care is needed at any particular moment. But improving the quality of life for people with cancer is a primary goal of cancer nursing practice. To reach that goal, the oncology nurse is devoted to reducing your physical discomfort and providing emotional support to you and your family.
Managing Symptoms Cancer and the side effects of treatment may have symptoms that are distressing or affect your day-today life. Your health care team has to work together to identify and relieve these symptoms. There is now a areas deal of nursing knowledge that lets the oncology nurse evaluate, advise and effectively take the edge off symptoms like nausea and vomiting, pain, constipation, diarrhea, mouth sores, shortness of breath, loss of appetite and emotional distress.
Support Groups and Other Resources It is important that whatever needs you have for emotional support be matched with the resources available in your community. These needs often change over the course of an illness and may depend on individual differences and the availability of family, friends and community support.
There are nurses, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists in private practice who have a special interest in and experience with people who have cancer. Most oncology nurses and social workers will be able to give you information about support resources.
