[Barriers to providing assistance and making arrangements for being discharged from the hospital or changing hospitals while undergoing cancer therapy for patients in a state of depression--perspective of a psycho-oncologist (Part 4)].

Abstract

In the treatment of cancer, living at home for as long as possible is an important aspect. During home care, many patients experience symptoms of dementia, depression, adjustment disorder, and mental disorder. There are 3 critical stages: the initial announcement of the diagnosis of cancer, the announcement of the occurrence of relapse, and the announcement regarding the lack of effective treatment. Listening carefully to complaints of patients during all stages will be helpful. With regard to how palliative care for cancer patients is perceived, we encountered a case of a patient who showed adjustment disorders when his life expectancy was deemed too short. By paying attention to what the patient was saying, we were able to help the patient overcome the critical state and continue receiving home care. During the treatment of cancer, patients receive bad news several times. It is difficult to maintain mental stability at such times. As seen in this case, resolution of adjustment disorder in 10 days is very rare. However, the patient confessed that, during the course of treatment, psychological care was not given appropriately. The best treatments for cancer were provided. However, the patient did not know how to deal with anxiety. This is an example that elicits sympathy.

• Authors: Hideo Takayanagi, Kazue Hanawa, Tomoko Kimura
• Journal: Gan to kagaku ryoho. Cancer & chemotherapy (Gan To Kagaku Ryoho) Vol. 40 Suppl 2 Pg. 183-4 (Dec 2013) ISSN: 0385-0684 [Print] Japan
• PMID: 24712139 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Topics

• Breast Neoplasms (pathology, psychology, therapy)
• Depression
• Fatal Outcome
• Female
• Humans
• Patient Care Team
• Patient Discharge
• Risk Factors