Cancer nursing
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Experiencing a diagnosis of cancer has the potential to dramatically alter the way in which a person experiences intimate and sexual aspects of their lives. This article draws on data from a larger study into issues of intimacy and sexuality from the perspectives of patients and health professionals in cancer and palliative care. ⋯ Many patients were disappointed by the lack of information, support, and practical strategies provided by health professionals to assist them to live with the sexual and intimate changes they had experienced in the face of a life-limiting disease. Implications for nursing practice are discussed.
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The helping professions have always been associated with high levels of stress and burnout because of the emotional intensity of the relationships with patients. The nature of hospice work can be both rewarding and challenging. Hospice workers encounter a variety of work- and client-related stressors. ⋯ The findings of this study suggest that hospice workers do experience a great deal of burnout, which affects their work performance and general functioning. The burnout is mainly the result of work-related stressors. Recommendations to alleviate this problematic situation are made.