THE ROLE OF THE NURSE IN SUPPORTING THE ONCOLOGY PATIENT

Abstract

Cancer is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and represents a major public health challenge. The disease affects not only the physical health of patients but also their psychological, emotional, social, and economic well-being. Advances in cancer treatment have improved survival rates; however, patients continue to face numerous challenges throughout diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. In this context, nurses play a vital role in providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.
The aim of this paper is to analyze the role of nurses in supporting oncology patients and to highlight their contribution to clinical care, patient education, psychosocial support, multidisciplinary collaboration, and palliative care.
This paper was conducted as a narrative literature review. Relevant scientific articles, professional publications, clinical guidelines, and reports related to oncology nursing, supportive care, patient education, psychosocial interventions, and palliative care were reviewed and analyzed. The collected data were synthesized to identify the main areas of nursing involvement in oncology care.
The reviewed literature indicates that nurses have a central role in oncology care. Their responsibilities include patient assessment, administration of treatment, monitoring of symptoms and adverse effects, and implementation of nursing interventions. Nurses also contribute significantly to patient and family education, helping individuals better understand the disease and treatment process. Furthermore, psychosocial support provided by nurses reduces anxiety, fear, and uncertainty among patients. The findings also emphasize the importance of effective communication and coordination within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. In palliative care settings, nurses contribute to pain management, symptom control, emotional support, and the preservation of patient dignity and quality of life.
Nurses are indispensable members of the oncology healthcare team. Their professional competence, communication skills, and continuous support positively influence patient outcomes, treatment adherence, and quality of life. Strengthening oncology nursing education and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration are essential for improving the quality of oncology care and addressing the complex needs of patients and their families.