Nurse Role in Nursing Care in Response to Breaking Bad News to Cancer Patients

Abstract

Cancer is a chronic disease, and its incidence has been increasing continuously. Most cancer patients are hospitalized at an advanced stage. Survival rates have been decreasing in the advanced stage. Treatment guidelines are not expected to result in a cure, but rather help patients sustain a satisfactory quality of life for as long as possible. Cancer, in the minds of most people, is a disease that causes suffering and death in a short time. When patients are diagnosed with cancer, they suffer stress, anxiety, and perceived lack of control, which extends to other family members. Telling the truth about the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment, is like delivering bad news. It is difficult for medical personnel to tell the truth, because of the anticipated reactions to bad news by patients and their families. Comprehension and acceptance of the truth is complicated and difficult. Therefore, assistance needs to be provided by those who have the knowledge, skills, and experience to help patients and their families. However, telling the truth patients and families about the prognosis and treatment guidelines for the disease, then providing appropriate support, can help patients accept, adapt, and decide on the best treatment options. Patients and families would thus receive assistance according to their needs, to enable them to maintain their normal daily lives and enjoy the best possible quality of life.