Information and Communication Needs of Individuals Living With Advanced Cancer

Objectives

To identify the informational needs of individuals living with advanced cancer, offer guidance to reliable and timely informational resources, and suggest ways in which communication among patients, family members, and health care providers can be optimized.

Data Source

Published articles and research studies.

Conclusion

Information and communication needs are problematic and common for people living with advanced cancer as they are frequently unable to find useful information. Health care professionals may lack effective communication skills that are suited to meet these patients' needs.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Nursing practice can be significantly strengthened by an awareness of the information needs of this population, and the skills to communicate more effectively with people living with advanced cancer and their families.

Key Words: Patient information, cancer patient, patient-centered communication