Patient Education

I attended a conference this weekend and was appalled at how many patients had not be educated regarding side effects such as Lymphedema,neuropathy, etc. as well as measures one might take to avoid recurrence. These are important topics. There is so much that can be done to avoid these issues that I find it shocking that more docs do not have these discussions. As soon as a patient is diagnosed with cancer they are inundated with all kinds of information on all the different modalities that they may experience regarding cancer. Their diet, physical activities, side effects and the everyday process of elimination are discussed to the fullness. But with all this information given to them the one subject that is glossed over or not discussed at all is sexuality. It appears that there is an 800-pound guerilla of sexuality in the cancer patient’s room and no one wants to talk about it.

All too often it has nothing to do with the patient but it has to do with the healthcare professional who may have a barrier between talking to the patients regarding sexual intimacy and their own feelings about their sexual attitudes. Many times a healthcare professional may assume someone of a certain age is to old to engage in sexual activities and will not bring up the subject at all for discussion.

Furthermore, not only should there be an open dialogue with the cancer patient pertaining to sexual issues, but their partner’s needs should also be address as well.

With understanding that sexuality is an integrated part of a normal life, nurses can help to navigate the many phases that their patients may encounter with reference to sexual intimacy.

1. To take charge of their healthcare patients need to decide that their health is priority #1 and they chose to be in charge. This an important decision point, because the other actions follow this commitment. Surprisingly there are many patients who say they want to get better, but really don't because their illness in some way meets their needs.

2. The second step would be to look at health from the holistic view and examine all areas of your life and their impact on your health. For example, financial problems can add tremendous stress, an therefore can adversely affect your health. Relationships,jobs, lifestyle, even your leisure and self care - are all connected to your health and wellness.

3. The third step is to create a specific action plan for those areas that need improvement.

4. The fourth step is to get a "health buddy" to help with accountability and staying on track with your plan. Accountability is extremely important. Just think about all the New Years resolutions that have come and gone after a few months.

This is your health, and you committed to being in charge. Now you are ready for step 2.
Center for Advancing Health President and experienced patient Jessie Gruman says, "People need to realize that finding good health care and making the most of it relies mainly on their actions. We have to work at being informed about when to seek care and from whom and about what we have to do to make the most of the services, drugs and technologies that constitute our treatments."

If you'd like to know more about Jessie and her experiences as a patient, you can visit www.AfterShockbook.com.