The clinical pathway for individuals diagnosed with cancer varies depending on a range of disease and treatment related factors. A summary of typical clinical pathways for a person diagnosed with cancer is presented in Figure 1. Astute nursing care is based on an understanding that the needs and levels of support required by individuals or their families can vary at different points across the cancer experience.
Figure 1: Potential cancer pathways (Adapted from Department of Health, Western Australia. Model of Care for Cancer).2
Watch Jane’s story: meet Jane again and complete the following learning activity:
Describe differences in support needs for individuals who are being treated for a potentially curable cancer compared to those who disease may not be curable.
Next: Section 2: The cancer experience for specific populations [2]
Links
[1] http://edcan.org.au/edcan-learning-resources/supporting-resources/cancer-journey/cancer-journey
[2] http://edcan.org.au/edcan-learning-resources/supporting-resources/cancer-journey/needs-of-specific-populations