Talking to Cancer Patients and Their Relatives [Paperback]

Doctors, nurses, and other workers in cancer care are increasingly aware of the need to improve their ability to interact effectively with cancer patients and their relatives, and colleagues. This book focuses primarily on the skills and strategies needed for effective communications between health professionals and patients trying to adapt to a fear-provoking diagnosis and an uncertain future. The practical guidelines have been tested over the years in clinical practice and validated by those using them.

1. Psychological Distress: Its Recognition and Management
2. 'Distancing' by Health Professionals
3. Patient Assessment: Structure and Content
4. Patient Assessment: Skills
5. Breaking the News to Patients
6. Monitoring Progress
7. Recognizing and Handling Difficult Personal Interactions
8. Handling Conflict in Cancer Care
9. Talking to Relatives
10. Spiritual Issues
11. Assessing the Bereaved
12. The Psychological Costs of Caring for Cancer Patients
13. Training in Communication Skills
14. Training Resources Available