Description

The mental health of patients with cancer is a vital part of their overall wellbeing. Unmet mental health needs have an adverse effect on a patient’s ability to cope with illness and its treatment and contribute to an increased burden on health services. Low staffing levels and inadequate training and support in the use of psychological skills may result in patients’ psychological difficulties going unnoticed. This learning module aims to improve nurses’ understanding of psychosocial issues that may arise during a diagnosis of cancer and its treatment and examines national guidance on the provision of psychological support to patients with cancer and their families. The author discusses best practice in psychological assessment and intervention and the importance of continuing professional development and self-care.