Author: Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

Jenni Daniel has years of experience as an oncology nurse who is committed to supporting cancer patients and caregivers during one of the most challenging journeys of their life. Driven by her personal experiences she takes pride in providing support, education, and teaching the importance of self advocacy during healthcare encounters. As a Bachelors prepared nurse her goals include normalizing the conversations around cancer, helping people manage side effects from treatment, and supporting the mental health of people affected by this disease. By working virtually she is able to support people in over 37 states, and encourages compliance with providers’ recommendations. She has a passion to calm the fears and trauma caused by a cancer diagnosis, providing a safe place to heal and restore, using practical advice, encouragement, support, and even humor and accountability to make the journey less overwhelming. She provides education to understand what is happening to the physical body, while maintaining focus on mindset and keeping mental health a priority during each encounter.

Patient Experience: Transparency At End Of Life

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

Transparency is crucial when cancer has metastasized, and the patient is nearing the end of their life. In these circumstances, honest communication between healthcare providers, patients, and their loved ones is essential. It enables patients to make educated and informed decisions about their care and prepares them for the next steps.

When cancer has metastasized, the patient and their loved ones must be informed of the available treatment options and the likely outcomes. They should be made aware of any potential side effects and the impact of the treatment on their quality of life. It is also important to discuss the possibility and benefits of palliative and hospice care. This way, patients can make informed decisions about their care, and loved ones can prepare themselves emotionally and practically for what lies ahead.

During this time, it is also important to acknowledge the challenges and fears that patients and their loved ones may be experiencing. Patients may be worried about the pain and discomfort associated with their illness, while loved ones may be concerned about how to provide the necessary care and support. Acknowledging these fears and concerns can help patients and their loved ones feel understood and validatd, and can create a more supportive environment.

It is also essential to discuss arrangements that may need to be made, such as end-of-life care and funeral arrangements. These discussions can be difficult, but they are necessary to ensure that patient’s wishes are respected and that their loved ones are as prepared as possible for what lies ahead. It is important to involve patients and their loved ones in these discussions to allow them to ask questions and express their concerns.

In addition to medical care, patients nearing the end of their life need emotional and social support. They may feel isolated and alone, and it is important to provide them with opportunities to connect with others and discuss their feelings and concerns. Loved ones also need support during this time, as they may be experiencing grief and feelings of loss.

In conclusion, transparency is necessary when cancer has metastasized, and the patient is nearing the end of their life. Honest communication between healthcare providers, patients, and their loved ones can help patients make informed decisions about their wises, and care and prepare for what lies ahead. It is also essential to acknowledge the challenges and fears associated with this time, discuss arrangements that need to be made, and provide emotional and social support to patients and their loved ones.

Palliative Care Patient Experience

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

Palliative care is a specialized medical approach that aims to improve the quality of life of patients who are experiencing cancer or a serious illness. Palliative care can be provided in conjunction with cancer treatment, and the focus is to manage symptoms, provide emotional support, and enhance the overall well-being of a patient. In this article, we will explore the patient experience with palliative care during cancer treatment, the benefits of palliative care, why it is helpful, and when it should be incorporated into cancer treatment plans.

The Patient Experience with Palliative Care during Cancer Treatment:

Palliative care is a patient-centered approach that considers the individual needs and preferences of the patient. Patients undergoing cancer treatment often experience a range of symptoms, such as pain, fatigue, nausea, and depression. Patients who receive palliative care during cancer treatment report improved quality of life, reduced symptoms, increased satisfaction with their care, and improved communication with their healthcare team. Palliative care providers work with the patient, their oncologist, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that the patient’s needs are being met, symptoms are managed, and emotional support is provided throughout the treatment process.

Benefits of Palliative Care:

The benefits of palliative care during cancer treatment are numerous. Palliative care can help manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and nausea, common side effects of cancer treatment. It can also help patients cope with the emotional and psychological impact of diagnosis and treatment. The palliative care team can help patients understand their treatment options and the potential benefits and risks of each option. This can help patients make informed decisions about their care and improve their quality of life.

Palliative care is helpful because it focuses on improving the quality of life of patients and is patient-centered. Patients undergoing cancer treatment can experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms that impact their overall well-being. Palliative care providers work with the patient to develop a care plan that considers their individual needs and preferences while managing the physical and emotional symptoms being experienced. This approach can help improve patient satisfaction with their care and lead to better outcomes.

When to Incorporate Palliative Care into Cancer Treatment Plans:

Palliative care can be incorporated into cancer treatment plans at any stage of the disease but is recommended to be incorporated early in the disease process. This can help patients manage symptoms and improve their overall well-being throughout the treatment process. Patients who receive palliative care early on in the disease process have been shown to have improved quality of life and reduced symptom burden. Palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatments or as the main focus of care in the advanced stages of the disease. Palliative care can also be provided to patients who are not receiving active cancer treatment.

Conclusion:

Palliative care is a patient-centered approach that aims to improve the quality of life of patients undergoing cancer treatment. Patients who receive palliative care during cancer treatment report improved symptom management, increased satisfaction with their care, and improved communication with their healthcare team. Palliative care can be provided at any stage of the disease process, but early incorporation is shown to improve patient outcomes.  The benefits of palliative care during cancer treatment are numerous and can help patients and their families navigate the disease while improving their overall well-being.

 

How Technology Impacts Education and Patient Experience

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be a challenging and complex process, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach involving physicians, nurses, social workers, and other healthcare professionals.  From diagnosis through survivorship, patients require education about their condition, treatment options, and available resources. In recent years, technology has played an increasingly important role in patient education, providing access to reliable information and support from healthcare professionals and other patients.

In this article, we will explore how technology impacts education for the patient experience from diagnosis of cancer through survivorship, the benefits of technology use, downsides, and the importance of accurate cancer education by providers, whether using virtual or in-person platforms.

One of the primary benefits of technology use in cancer education is the ability to provide patients with access to accurate, up-to-date information about their condition. Online resources such as cancer-specific websites, mobile applications, and social media platforms provide patients with information on diagnosis, treatment options, and side effects. This information can help patients make informed decisions about their care and empower them to advocate for themselves during treatment.

Additionally, technology can facilitate communication between patients and their healthcare providers. Virtual platforms, such as telemedicine, allow patients to receive a consultation and follow-up care remotely, reducing the need for some in-person visits and improving access to care. Patients can also use digital tools, such as electronic health records and online patient portals, to communicate with their healthcare providers between appointments and access their medical records. This helps patients stay informed about their care and better understand their treatment options.

While technology has many benefits for cancer education, there are downsides to its use. One of the most significant downsides is the risk of misinformation. With the abundance of information available online, patients may come across inaccurate or misleading information about their condition, which can lead to confusion, stress, and anxiety. Patients may also be tempted to rely too heavily on technology, neglecting in-person interactions with their healthcare providers, which are crucial for patient care.

Despite these downsides, the importance of accurate cancer education by healthcare providers cannot be overstated. Whether using virtual or in-person platforms, healthcare providers must ensure that the information they provide patients is accurate, up-to-date, and easily understood. This can be achieved through patient-centered communication and education programs that consider the patient’s cultural background, literacy level, and language barriers.

One top benefit of accurate cancer education is improved patient outcomes. Patients who are well-informed about their condition and treatment options are more likely to make informed decisions about their care, participate in their treatment plan, and adhere to their medication regimen. This can lead to better patient outcomes, such as increased survival rates and improved quality of life.

Overall, technology has revolutionized cancer education, providing patients access to accurate information, resources, and support. While there are downsides to the use of technology, such as the risk of misinformation and the potential for over-reliance, healthcare providers must ensure that patients receive accurate cancer education, whether using virtual or in-person platforms. By providing accurate information, healthcare providers can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the patient experience from diagnosis through survivorship.

 

How Communication Impacts The Patient Experience

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

Effective communication is crucial for any successful relationship, including the one between healthcare providers and their patients. When it comes to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, the importance of effective communication cannot be overstated. Patients are often frightened, overwhelmed, and anxious about their diagnosis and treatment. Effective communication can help alleviate some of these feelings and improve the overall patient experience.

Poor communication by providers can have a significant impact on the patient experience. Patients may feel unsupported, ignored, or dismissed by their healthcare team, which can lead to feelings of mistrust and dissatisfaction. Patients who feel their providers are not listening to them or are not providing them with adequate and honest information may be more likely to experience negative emotions such as anxiety and depression.  Which may cause some to not proceed with recommended treatments and /or follow-up care.

On the other hand, good communication by providers can positively impact the patient experience. Patients who feel heard, understood, and supported by their healthcare team are more likely to feel confident in their care and to have a more positive overall experience. Effective communication can help patients understand their diagnosis and treatment options, which can lead to more informed decisions and better outcomes.

Effective communication also plays a crucial role in survivorship. Patients who have completed their treatment and are transitioning to survivorship need to feel supported and informed about what to expect during this phase. Good communication can help patients understand the long-term effects of cancer treatment and what steps they can take to manage these effects. It can also help patients feel more empowered and in control of their health.

There are several key components of effective communication in cancer care. These include:

  1. Active listening: Healthcare providers should listen to their patients’ concerns, fears, and questions. Patients should feel their healthcare team is listening to them and taking all of their concerns seriously.
  2. Clear and concise communication: Healthcare providers should use clear and concise language when communicating with patients. Patients should understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and what to expect during their care.
  3. Empathy: Healthcare providers should demonstrate empathy towards their patients. Patients should feel that their healthcare team understands and cares about their emotional and psychological well-being as much as their physical health.
  4. Timely communication: Healthcare providers should communicate with their patients in a timely manner. Patients should feel that they are being kept informed about their care and that their healthcare team is responsive to their needs. 

Considering all this, effective communication by doctors and nurses plays a critical role in the patient experience during cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Poor communication can lead to negative emotions, mistrust, dissatisfaction, and poor outcomes. While good communication can lead to greater confidence, informed decision-making, and improved outcomes. Healthcare providers should prioritize effective communication as essential to quality cancer care.

If you need assistance communicating with your providers, please look at the Support Organizations section of the CancerGo app or reach out directly to mynurseathome1@gmail.com.

Patient Experience and Cancer Survivorship

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

A patient’s experience during cancer treatment can have a significant impact on survivorship. Survivorship, in the context of cancer, refers to the process of living with, through, and beyond cancer. Cancer treatment is often a challenging and difficult journey, and the way patients are treated and cared for can have a significant impact on their emotional and mental well-being.

The patient experience during cancer treatment can affect how patients see themselves as survivors. Cancer treatment can be a difficult and isolating experience, and patients who receive poor care or treatment, or lack mental health support, may feel disillusioned and hopeless about their chances of survival. Conversely, patients who receive compassionate, high-quality care along with mental health management may feel supported and hopeful, which can contribute to a more positive self-perception and a greater sense of resilience.

Being a cancer survivor means different things to different people. For some, it means having a renewed appreciation for life and a commitment to living each day to the fullest. For others, it means struggling with the long-term physical and emotional effects of cancer treatment. For many survivors, it is a combination of both. Regardless of the specific experience, being a cancer survivor is a significant and life-changing event that requires ongoing support and care.

Moving on as a cancer survivor can be a complex and challenging process. Many survivors experience ongoing physical and emotional effects of cancer treatment, including fatigue, pain, and anxiety. Additionally, survivors may struggle with feelings of guilt or survivor’s remorse, along with uncertainty about the future. Moving on requires a commitment to self-care, including physical and mental health, as well as social support and community engagement.

Research has shown that the patient experience during cancer treatment can impact survivorship in several ways. Patients whose perception was high-quality, patient-centered care during cancer treatment are more likely to have better outcomes, including higher rates of survival and improved quality of life. Additionally, patients who receive emotional and psychological support during treatment are more likely to experience improved mental health outcomes, including reduced anxiety and depression.

The patient experience during cancer treatment also impacts survivorship by influencing one’s perception of their illness and their ability to cope with it. Patients who feel supported and cared for during treatment may have a greater sense of control over their illness, which can contribute to a greater sense of self-efficacy and resilience. Conversely, patients who feel unsupported or neglected during treatment may experience a sense of powerlessness and hopelessness, which can contribute to poorer health outcomes and a diminished sense of self-worth.

In summary, the patient experience during cancer treatment has a significant impact on survivorship. Patients who receive high-quality, patient-centered care during cancer treatment are more likely to experience positive outcomes, including improved mental and physical health, greater resilience, and a more positive self-perception as survivors. Moving on as a survivor requires an ongoing commitment to self-care, including physical and mental health, as well as social support and community engagement. By prioritizing the patient experience during cancer treatment, healthcare providers can help improve survivorship outcomes and support patients through their cancer journey.

 

For more help with survivorship and cancer, please look at the Support Organizations section of the CancerGo app or reach out directly to mynurseathome1@gmail.com.

 

Financial Transparency and Patient Experience

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

The patient experience related to financial transparency during cancer treatment is critical in ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and can manage the financial burden associated with cancer treatment. This experience can impact how patients perceive the cost of treatment, their ability to make informed decisions if they cannot afford treatment, and their mental health.

 

Patients who have a positive experience with financial transparency during cancer treatment are more likely to feel empowered and in control of their health and healthcare expenses. When patients receive clear and transparent information about the costs of treatment, they can make informed decisions about their care, which can improve treatment adherence and overall outcomes. Patients who are well-informed about the cost of treatment are also more likely to be prepared for any financial burden, reducing stress and anxiety related to the cost of care.

 

On the other hand, patients who perceive a lack of financial transparency may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and uncertain about their ability to afford treatment. They may be hesitant to, or not to, seek necessary care if they are unsure about the costs, which can negatively impact their health outcomes. Moreover, if patients cannot afford treatment, they may face difficult decisions, such as delaying or forgoing necessary care, which can have severe consequences on their health and well-being.

 

The impact of financial stress on mental health is well documented. Financial stress can cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders, which can negatively impact a patient’s quality of life, treatment adherence, and outcomes. In addition, patients who cannot afford treatment may experience feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness, which can further exacerbate their mental health conditions.

 

Healthcare systems and providers need to provide patients with clear and transparent information about the costs of cancer treatment. They should be able to explain what is covered by insurance, provide an estimate of the total cost of treatment, and outline any out-of-pocket expenses. Providers should also be prepared to discuss financial assistance options, such as payment plans, financial assistance programs, or alternative treatments that may be less expensive, yet still effective.

 

If patients cannot afford treatment, there are various options available to help them manage the financial burden of cancer care. Patients need the ability to work with their healthcare providers to find less expensive treatment options or negotiate payment plans. Additionally, there are various financial assistance programs available for patients who meet certain eligibility criteria. Patients should not hesitate to speak with their healthcare providers about their financial concerns and explore all options available to them.

 

In conclusion, the patient experience related to financial transparency during cancer treatment is crucial to ensure that patients can manage the financial burden of care and make informed decisions about their health. Clear and transparent communication about the cost of care is essential to empower patients and improve their overall outcomes. Healthcare providers and systems should be prepared to discuss financial assistance options with patients who cannot afford treatment and support them throughout their cancer journey.

For more help with financial assistance during cancer, please look at the Support Organizations section of the CancerGo app or reach out directly to mynurseathome1@gmail.com.

 

Mental Health Support During Cancer Care

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

Cancer is a devastating illness that affects not only the physical health of an individual but also their mental health. The diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming, causing feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression. The treatment process can also be grueling, causing additional stress, exhaustion, and feelings of hopelessness.

While medical treatment is essential for physically combating cancer, it is equally important to address the mental health needs of patients during this time. Unfortunately, traditional medical insurance plans often do not cover the cost of mental health services, making it difficult for patients to access the support they need.

Private support is a valuable alternative for cancer patients, and their caregivers, seeking mental health benefits during treatment. Remote support can come in many forms, including counseling services, support groups, or even individualized coaching and mentorship. The benefits of private support are numerous and can include the following:

  1. Personalized attention and care – Private support provides individualized attention and care tailored to the specific needs of the patient. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who may feel too overwhelmed to participate in a group setting or who may require specialized care.  
  2. Confidentiality – Private support offers a confidential space for patients to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment or stigma. This can be especially important for patients who may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their emotional struggles.
  3. Flexibility – Private support is often more flexible than traditional medical treatments, allowing patients to choose when and where they receive care. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty accessing traditional care due to distance or scheduling conflicts.
  4. Improved mental health outcomes – Studies have shown that private support can significantly improve mental health outcomes for cancer patients, including reduced anxiety, depression, and stress. This can be especially important for patients who are struggling to cope with the emotional impact of their diagnosis and treatment.

 

Private support is a valuable resource for cancer patients seeking mental health support during, or after, treatment. Whether through counseling services, support groups, or individualized coaching and mentorship with a qualified professional, private support offers a confidential and personalized space for patients to address their emotional needs and improve their mental health outcomes. If you or a loved one is facing a cancer diagnosis, consider acquiring private support options as a complementary approach to traditional medical treatment.

 

Journaling During Cancer

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

A cancer diagnosis can be an incredibly stressful and emotional experience. It can be challenging to navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological toll that a cancer diagnosis and treatment can take on an individual. Journaling is a powerful tool that is easy to use and can be used to support mental health during cancer treatment. In this article, we will explore why journaling can be helpful and how easy it is to get started.

Reasons to Journal during Cancer Treatment:

Reduces Stress: Journaling can help reduce stress by allowing individuals to express their feelings and emotions without judgment. The act of putting thoughts and feelings down on paper can be cathartic and provide a release of tension.

Provides a Sense of Control: Cancer treatment can make individuals feel powerless. Journaling provides a sense of control and an emotional release by allowing individuals to track their progress, monitor symptoms, and set goals for their mental and physical health.

Increases Self-awareness: Journaling encourages introspection and self-reflection, leading to better self-awareness. By becoming more aware of thoughts and emotions, individuals can identify patterns and triggers affecting their mental health and develop coping strategies.

Enhances Communication with Healthcare Providers: Journaling can help individuals communicate with their healthcare providers more effectively. By keeping a record of symptoms, side effects, and treatment outcomes, individuals can provide their healthcare providers with more detailed and accurate information.

Promotes Gratitude and Positive Thinking: Journaling can help individuals focus on the positive aspects of their lives, promoting gratitude and positivity. By acknowledging the good things in their lives, individuals can improve their mental well-being and overall quality of life.

 

How to Start Journaling:

Choose a Journal: Select a journal that feels comfortable to write in.  It can be a simple blank notebook, diary, or a journal with prompts or inspirational quotes.

Schedule Time to Write: Set aside time each day to write in your journal. It could be in the morning, evening, or during treatment sessions. The key is to make journaling a consistent part of your routine.

Write Freely: Allow yourself to write without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or spelling.  Some like to draw, write single words, or many paragraphs/words.  The goal is to express yourself rather than to produce a polished piece of writing.  Think of this as a way to release any thoughts/concerns/feelings running through your mind.

Focus on Your Feelings: Write about your emotions, fears, and concerns. Be honest with yourself and allow your true feelings to emerge.

Track Progress: Keep track of your physical and emotional symptoms, treatment outcomes, and progress toward your goals. This can help you monitor your mental health and provide valuable information to your healthcare providers.

 

Journaling can be a powerful tool for individuals undergoing cancer treatment to support their mental health. By reducing stress, providing a sense of control, increasing self-awareness, enhancing communication with healthcare providers, and promoting gratitude and positive thinking, journaling can help individuals cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment. By following these simple steps, anyone can start journaling and reap the benefits of this valuable tool to support your mental health.

 

Cancer Treatments

Posted on by Jenni Daniel BSN, RN

After you have received your diagnosis, you will be offered a plan to treat your cancer. There are many factors that go into recommendations, which also means there may be changes along the way, and deviations from the initial plan. Treatments are tailored to your specific tumor type, grade, pathology, and how advanced it is, and take into consideration the overall health status of the person getting treatment.

 

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is given orally, medicine taken by mouth, or intravenously (IV), through a needle placed in your vein, and in other ways. Most who receive chemotherapy also receive some other type of treatment. When used as a first treatment, this is called neoadjuvant, before any surgery or radiation, making a tumor smaller, and surgery easier. It can also be used after surgery or radiation, called adjuvant chemotherapy, to destroy cancer cells left behind.

Chemotherapy has many potential side effects, the most common one being fatigue. Other common side effects it may cause are hair loss, mouth sores, nausea, and tingling in hands/feet, which often improve or completely go away once you finish chemotherapy. Treatment schedules vary. The frequency and duration of chemotherapy depend on your type of cancer, how advanced it is if they are using it to cure your cancer, control its growth or ease your symptoms.  

 

Surgery

To treat cancer using surgery, a surgeon uses tools to remove cancer from your body. The different types of surgery, it may be open, or minimally invasive. The surgeon will remove the tumor, along with some healthy tissues and possibly nearby lymph nodes. Surgery can remove an entire tumor, or debulk it (removing some but not all of the cancer). Pain is common after surgery, your doctor can help you manage. How much depends on the extent of surgery, how you feel pain, and where on your body you had surgery. There is risk of infections, bleeding, damage to tissue nearby, or you could even have a reaction to the anesthesia. It is important to discuss all concerns with your doctor before surgery. There may be other tests to prepare you for surgery such as blood work, x-rays, and electrocardiograms (ECG), which look at your heart function. After surgery it is important to follow instructions from your surgeon, have good nutrition for healing, and get plenty of rest.

 

Radiation or Radiotherapy

This treatment uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. X-rays, use a low dose of radiation to see inside your body. High doses kill or slow cancer cells by damaging their DNA. Radiation takes days or weeks before there is enough damage for cancer cells to die. The two main types of radiation are external beam and internal. The type you receive depends on what type of cancer, where it is located, size, plus factors related to your age, medical history, and general health.  External beam radiation uses a machine that aims radiation at your cancer. You will see the machine moving during treatment, but will not feel radiation working.  Internal radiation uses a radiation source, which is solid or liquid, placed inside of your body. It is known as brachytherapy when a solid source is used. This may be a seed, or capsule placed in or near the tumor. Radiation has lifetime dose limits so depending on whether you have had radiation before or not, you may not be able to have radiation again. Side effects depend on the area of the body to which the radiation is being given and typically affect only that area. It is possible that radiation is the only treatment, but often it is used with other cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy or surgery.

There are other ways to treat cancer which include but are not limited to, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplant, and targeted therapy. It is important to remember that doctors choose therapy based on an individual’s specific cancer, location, and overall health status. Ask questions, and make sure you understand the intent of the treatment being recommended, and how it may affect you.

 

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