Cancer pain : Coping with cancer and treatment

• July 22, 2020
• Tony Guo
• no comments

Cancer pain

• Patient report should always be believed and accepted as primary source for pain assessment data
• Drug therapy should be used to control pain
• Inadequate pain assessment is single greatest barrier to effective cancer pain management
  • Management of cancer pain
    • Fear of addiction is unwarranted
    • Numerous drug options for pain management
    • Nonpharmacologic interventions, including relaxation therapy and imagery, can be used effectively
  • Moderate to severe pain occurs in approximately 50% of patients who are receiving active treatment for their cancer and in 80% to 90% of patients with advanced cancer.
  • It is essential to perform a comprehensive pain assessment on an ongoing basis and to enact a pain management plan that addresses both components of pain if they are present.

Coping with cancer and treatment

• Nursing assessment and support are key
  • Pervasive anxiety and fear
    • Fears of dependency
    • Loss of control
    • Family relationship stress
    • Financial burden
    • Fear of death
      • Be available, especially during difficult times
      • Exhibit caring
      • Actively listen
      • Provide symptom relief
      • Provide accurate information
      • Build trust
      • Use touch
      • Assist setting realistic goals
      • Support usual lifestyle patterns
      • Maintain hope
      • Reassure of ongoing support
      • Offer support from survivors
        • Improvement in early detection and treatment
        • > 14.5 million in the United States