Seminars in oncology nursing
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To describe the evidence that palliative care, provided concurrently with disease-modifying treatment early in the course of a cancer diagnosis, can improve quality of life, length of survival, symptom burden, mood, and utilization of health services. ⋯ Oncology nurses can improve access by becoming knowledgeable about generalist palliative care and by advocating for local and national practice change.
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To provide an overview of pediatric palliative care (PPC) as it relates to children and families living with oncologic disease. ⋯ Palliative care nursing holds a specific role in the pediatric oncology setting. Registered nurses and advanced practice nurses should be adequately trained in PPC because they are in an optimal role to contribute to interdisciplinary PPC for pediatric oncology patients and their families.
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To provide support for the early integration of palliative care into the care of hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients and families with the goal of improving care. ⋯ The palliative care service can support the HCT nurse in providing complex care to HCT recipients who are faced with significant side effects, toxicities, and complications of transplant.
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To provide an overview of the four major palliative care delivery models: ambulatory clinics, home-based programs, inpatient palliative care units, and inpatient consultation services. The advantages and disadvantages of each model and the generalist and specialist roles in palliative care will be discussed. ⋯ Nurses caring for oncology patients with life-limiting disease should be informed about these models for optimal impact on patient care outcomes. Oncology nurses should demonstrate generalist skills in the care of the seriously ill and access specialist palliative care providers as warranted by the patient's condition.
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To describe the goals of treatment, decision-making, incidence, and outcomes of surgical palliation in advanced cancer. ⋯ Oncology nurses practicing in clinical and research settings have a responsibility to arm themselves with knowledge related to the indications and options of palliative procedures, and the impact of surgery on quality of life for patients and families facing advanced cancer.