Learning modules
Activity 10: Responding to losses
It is now a few months since Michelle was given the news that her cancer had progressed. She has been receiving palliative chemotherapy to help control her disease, but is finding that her personal and social relationships are changing. She has requested an appointment to see Dawn Matthews, the Cancer Care Coordinator, as she is feeling very flat and worried about how she is coping. Dawn arranges for Michelle to see her prior to her scheduled chemotherapy.
Thinking points
Activity 10: Responding to losses
Thinking points
Activity 10: Responding to losses
- Use the Patient Dignity Inventory to identify some of Michelle's sources of distress at this time.
- What communication strategies does Dawn engage to encourage Michelle to talk about her concerns?
- What other strategies might be used to support an individual who:
a) expresses concerns about how their illness has affected relationships with people close to them?
b) feel the illness is affecting their personal appearance and body image? - As a health care professional, what can you do to help a person, such as Michelle, feel in control when their illness is progressing?
- Dawn asks Michelle if she would be interested in seeing a psychologist for support. In what circumstances should referral to a psychologist be considered?
