The challenges in making a living will in a person with cancer.

Abstract

During the final stages of life, the patient may lose the ability to communicate, leaving important care decisions in the hands of others. However, these decisions may not align with the patient’s wishes. It is crucial for the patient to have a plan and to establish care directives for the end of life in advance. For individuals with cancer, creating a living will can be particularly challenging compared to other disease groups. This article presents a comprehensive review of the literature, aiming to describe the various challenges faced by individuals with cancer. It discusses the obstacles that hinder the preparation of advance directives and elucidates the role of healthcare providers, including nurses, in supporting the decision-making process for people with cancer to choose advanced self-care strategies. Armed with a solid understanding of the illness and the correct knowledge, I intend to create an advance directive to guide and facilitate my treatment, nursing care, and family care in line with my intentions. This endeavor seeks to promote the development and widespread acceptance of advance directives for end-of-life care within society, ultimately benefitting many lives.