Total Gatrectomy

[love2nurse23]

Im looking for some feedback...A 52 year old male had a subtotal gastrectomy 10 weeks ago from having cancer. He is having a hard time maintaining his weight. His usually weight is 190lbs and he is down to 165 lbs. His wife stated that he is depressed, will not eat, and sits in his chair all day and sleeps. She thinks he just wants to give up and die. She started crying. As a nurse what would you say to her? What person could be helpful in this situation?

[elkpark]

This sounds like a homework question! We are happy to help you process the ideas you've come up with on your own, or clarify questions/issues you may have about the research you've already done, but we're not here to do your homework for you. What are your own thoughts about these questions?

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

there is lots of information about the different types of cancers including cancer of the stomach on

• http://www.cancer.gov/ - national cancer institute

as for support for the cancer patient, you should be able to find information on the website of the american cancer society. i know that after i had my colon surgery for colon cancer and called them, the first thing they asked me was if i was eating and sent me several books (not pamphlets) on food and eating for people with cancer. they also have many support services that are free for people who are struggling with this disease and treatment for it. their volunteers will just take time to talk sympathetically and supportively with people.

• http://www.cancer.org - american cancer society

you can find information about gastrectomy on this website:

• encyclopedia of surgery http://www.surgeryencyclopedia.com/index.html