英文摘要 |
This case report describes the care experience between January 19 and February 27, 2020 of a patient with late-stage nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which ultimately featured an advance directive. Data were collected using the Gordon's Eleven Functional Health Patterns assessment tool and through observations, interviews, records, and physical assessments for the comprehensive evaluation of the patient. The patient faced three major care issues: potential risk for infection, caregiver role strain, and barriers to free decision-making. To address these issues, three measures were adopted. First, the caregiver (the patient's elder sister) was educated on the principles of infection prevention and care techniques to reduce the risk of infection in the patient. Second, keeping the caregiver company and empathizing with her feelings provided a channel for the caregiver to relieve her stress, which contributed to the reduction of anxiety. Third, a family meeting was organized to provide the proper medical information to the family members of the patient. The concepts of hospice and palliative care were utilized to guide the patient in expressing his opinions to his caregiver and exercising his right of individual autonomy. The findings support early intervention by the joint palliative care team to assist patients and their family members in making mental adjustments and end-of-life preparations. Clinical nurses are also encouraged to participate in courses on hospice care and communication to nurture positive attitudes and communication skills, and provide individualized care to enhance the quality of care rendered to terminal cancer patients. |