Nursing role in caring and educating patients with lymphoma ( second part ) بالانجليزية

   Nurses play a crucial role in providing holistic care to individuals with lymphoma, including assessment, treatment, symptom management, patient education, and emotional support. Nursing assessment is vital for understanding the patient's diagnosis, symptoms, and identifying any physical or emotional needs. They also play a key role in promoting effective breathing patterns and monitoring for side effects of chemotherapy. Managing fatigue is important, with nurses encouraging patients to balance rest and activity, suggesting energy conservation techniques, and prioritizing activities based on energy levels. Regular physical activity can improve energy levels, boost the immune system, and enhance emotional well-being. 

    In order to provide health education and support for patients with lymphoma, it is important to address the cognitive challenges they may face, such as memory and attention difficulties. As the complex nature of lymphoma treatment can make it hard for patients to acquire and retain information about their condition. By initiating health teachings and patient education, nurses can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition. This includes educating them on bleeding risk reduction, skin care, infection prevention, and pain management. 

    To reduce the risk of bleeding, it is important to take precautions for patients with low platelet counts. This includes using gentle methods like soft toothbrushes and electric razors, as well as being careful during personal care. Patients should be educated on recognizing signs of bleeding and reporting any unusual bleeding promptly. For skin care, regular assessment of the skin is necessary, especially in areas undergoing radiation therapy. Skin care interventions like moisturizing creams can help protect and soothe the skin. 

 

      It is also important to educate patients and their families on infection prevention measures, such as hand hygiene, avoiding sick individuals, and maintaining a clean living environment. It is also important to avoid crowds (especially during cold and flu seasons), getting annual flu and pneumonia vaccines, regularly cleaning and disinfecting objects that are frequently touched, and avoiding touching the eyes, nose, and mouth after touching surfaces or other people. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, and reporting concerns to healthcare providers promptly is crucial. To ensure that care is well-coordinated and thorough, collaborate with the healthcare team, including oncologists, radiation therapists, and social workers, to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care. 

     It is crucial to educate individuals about lifestyle changes to help in recovery, and improve the quality of life. It is recommended to engage in regular exercise, get enough rest, and learn energy conservation techniques. It is also important to quit smoking, as it can increase complications during medical procedures and slow healing. Getting enough sleep and adjusting activities to manage fatigue can also aid in recovery.  Following a well-balanced and healthy diet is important for the body and mind, as it can aid in faster recovery and healing after treatment. Consulting with a dietitian or nutritionist may be helpful in creating a meal plan to combat appetite and weight loss caused by chemotherapy. 

    Providing early access to enhanced supportive care, both at the time of diagnosis and before reaching a crisis point, as well as introducing palliative care in a timely manner, can offer numerous benefits to individuals with lymphoma, their families, and their healthcare providers. This includes providing psychosocial support such as emotional assistance, listening actively, and using therapeutic communication to address the patient's well-being. It is important to connect patients and families with counselling services or support groups, emphasize the importance of ongoing medical follow-up, assess financial needs and concerns, and identify available community resources and vocational services. 

References

Rieger PT, and Yarbro CH. Role of the Oncology Nurse. In: Kufe DW, Pollock RE, Weichselbaum RR, et al., editors. Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine. 6th edition. Hamilton (ON): BC Decker; 2003. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK13570/

Kaseb H, Babiker HM, and Doerr C. Hodgkin Lymphoma (Nursing) [Updated 2023 Jun 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK568807/

Ackley and Ladwig’s Nursing Diagnosis Handbook: An Evidence-Based Guide to Planning Care

Nursing Care Plans – Nursing Diagnosis & Intervention (10th Edition)

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All-in-One Nursing Care Planning Resource – E-Book: Medical-Surgical, Pediatric, Maternity, and Psychiatric-Mental Health 

 

Vera M. 2 Lymphoma Nursing Care Plans. 2024. Available at: https://nurseslabs.com/lymphoma-nursing-care-plans/