What do say to pt with new dx of metastatic CA?

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Specializes in Acute Care.

I do not work on a oncology floor , but lately we have been seeing a wave of newly diagnosed cancers, especially advanced stages. Some of us were discussing how we were uncomfortable and unsure of what to say to offer comfort. Any advice?

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Specializes in Trauma Surgical ICU.

You don't have to say anything,sometimes just listen, be there, advocate for them in any way they need it.. Let them vent, be sad, cry etc.. Sometimes they just want to feel normal and talk about things other than cancer, it doesn't have to be sad all the time.. Treat them and talk to them as you would any pt going through something difficult. When the time comes; help them decide what they want to do when fighting the cancer is no longer working or the end is near. A simple statement can open the lines of communication.. " I am so sorry this is happening, what can I do for you" may help.

My aunt just passed in Aug from cancer, she lived 9 months post DX. After all her treatments and everything was said and done, I was the family go to person. I educated them on the dying process, what to expect, I walked her and her hubby through DNR, living will, medical power of attorney and helped them chose Hospice for comfort care.

Unprofessional but cancer sucks !!!

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^^Great answer! Not just for new metastatic cancer diagnoses, but for most everything. If we just kept those things in mind with all of our communications, we'd be set. :)

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Specializes in Oncology.

I have a hard time with this, especially if they seem to want me to say something. Sometimes they'll express frustration with it and even swear then apologize for being angry. Then I'll be like, "Don't apologize for being angry, it does ******* suck." Sometimes just justifying their emotions and letting them get them out is enough. I'll say that I'm sorry that they're dealing with this, but that I know they are strong. If they want to talk about what happens next I'll go over any tests or treatments I know they have coming up to the best of my knowledge. I'll offer to talk to them about support services we have. If they're concerned with side effects from chemo and such I'll tell them about ways we manage that. Some people like a lot of information. Some people just need someone to hold their hand, rub their back, and grieve with them.

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Specializes in Trauma Surgical ICU.

Thank you wooh :)

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