How to Nurse Patients With Cancer

Cancer caregivers provide vital support to the physical and emotional well-being of their patients. When cancer patients discharge from the hospital to home care, a home health aide, family member or close friend becomes the primary caregiver, nursing the patient on a daily basis. This consists of caring for basic needs, listening to concerns, speaking with members of the health care team and providing the patient with comforting words of encouragement.

Instructions

• 1

  Consult with the patient's doctor to understand the patient's plan of care and review expectations for your role as caregiver. Sign up for classes at the hospital to administer medications via injection and IV site. These classes are free for primary caregivers caring for patients at home.

• 2

  Prepare meals according to the patient's regimen and assist with feeding, if needed. Some patients require a specialized diet or tube feeding for additional vitamins, minerals and proteins. Measure and administer tube feedings per can or bag as the doctor instructs.

• 3

  Give medicines as the doctor prescribes. Give scheduled medications at precise times and p.r.n. (whenever symptoms arise). Usually pain and nausea medications are prescribed "as needed" for cancer patients because they experience frequent pain and nausea or vomiting.

• 4

  Assist the patient with daily grooming like bathing, applying make-up, oral care and shaving. Encourage light walking outdoors for fresh air and exercise if the patient is mobile and feels up to it, and if the doctor approves.

• 5

  Encourage the patient to communicate his feelings to you, but do not force him to open up. Let him know you are available if he needs to talk. If he is exhibiting signs of severe depression, fear or anxiety, consult with his oncologist.