With the aging of the population, the number of elderly people suffering from cancer is increasing. In such a situation, the role of the nurse practitioner, who not only takes care of the daily needs of patients, but also plays a key role in providing medical and psychological care, becomes extremely important. This article looks at the main role of the practice nurse and how they can affect the quality of life of elderly cancer patients.

Emotional support

Nurse practitioners play an extremely important role in the emotional support of elderly cancer patients. Patients often experience strong emotions related to the diagnosis and treatment of their disease, as well as uncertainty and fears about the future. Nurses who can listen, support and provide information and knowledge about the disease and treatment are irreplaceable in the treatment process. They give patients a sense of security and help them cope with emotional difficulties.

Monitoring and managing symptoms

Cancer often causes various symptoms that affect the quality of life of elderly patients. Nurse practitioners are responsible for monitoring these symptoms, such as pain, nausea, eating problems, fatigue or respiratory problems. With their experience and knowledge, nurses can adjust appropriate medications and procedures to alleviate these symptoms and improve patient comfort. By regularly monitoring symptoms and managing them effectively, practice nurses help patients achieve the best possible quality of life while battling cancer.

Collaborating with other health professionals

Nurse practitioners play a key role in collaborating with other health professionals in caring for elderly patients with cancer. Daily collaboration with physicians, physiotherapists, psychologists and social workers is essential to provide comprehensive care to patients. Nurses act as care coordinators, ensuring that all specialists work together in a coordinated manner for the best treatment outcomes. This collaboration also includes providing information and education to patients and their families about the disease, treatment, and post-treatment support.

Providing long-term care

Elderly people with cancer often require long-term care, both during and after treatment. Nurse practitioners are present at every stage of therapy, providing comprehensive and personalized care. Nurses' years of experience in caring for the elderly allow them to deliver care both in hospitals and in patients' homes. Nurse practitioners support patients in both medical and psychological aspects, helping them cope with health difficulties and maintain the best possible quality of life.

Conclusion: practice nurses have an irreplaceable role in providing care to elderly people with cancer. By providing emotional support, monitoring and managing symptoms, collaborating with other health professionals and providing long-term care, nurses contribute to patients' quality of life and help them mitigate the effects of the disease. Their knowledge, experience and empathy are essential to the treatment process and are a key component of effective treatment. Therefore, nurse practitioners play an extremely important and valued role in working with elderly patients suffering from cancer.