Palliative care: the nurse's role
<p> Aim and intended learning outcomes </p> <p>The aim of the article is to explore the role and knowledge needs of all nurses working with terminally ill cancer patients and their families. Although the article centres on terminal cancer care, much of it (especially in relation to psychosocial issues) is relevant to patients who are dying from other causes. After reading the article, the nurse should be able to:</p> □ <p>Explain the concept of palliative care</p> □ <p>Discuss common physical symptoms experienced by patients with advanced cancer</p> □ <p>Understand basic treatment interventions aimed at symptom control</p> □ <p>Explain the psychosocial implications of living with advanced cancer</p> □ <p>Understand the importance of the nurse's contribution in assisting patients and families to deal with both physical and psychosocial problems.</p> <p>Before reading the next section, do Time Out. ①</p>