1. CANCER CAREGIVERS-THE DIFFERENCE
Peggy Anthony, RN, MHS,CNOR
Patient Advocate Committee

2. Cancer Caregivers-The Difference
Estimated 2.8 million individuals in the US are providing informal care for an adult family member or friend with cancer
Cancer caregivers devote more hours per week hours vs hours for non cancer caregivers
62% of cancer caregivers vs.49% of non cancer caregivers were more likely to communicate with healthcare professionals and to advocate on behalf of the patient

3. Cancer Caregivers-The Difference
Cancer caregivers were nearly twice as likely to report needing help and information with end of life decision-making
Cancer caregivers are called on to assist with complex treatment decisions soon after diagnosis
Cancer caregivers experience high levels of emotional stress
Cancer caregivers are asked to perform tasks that they may or may not be adequately prepared to do
Dx – biopsy, core biopsies
Prevention – cervical dysplasia
Staging – lymph nodes, etc
Palliative – obstruction, brain swelling (risks must be weighed against benefits)
Reconstruction – cover areas where skin edges won’t come back together, ie: scalp / arm, etc. or insert implants to provide more normal appearance of body structure, ie: breast

4. Cancer Caregivers-The Difference
Cancer caregivers are vital to cancer patients’ well-being
Fewer resources are directed to help cancer caregivers
Cancer caregivers and cancer patients are interdependent
New research shows that more is needed to better understand at what point providers and clinicians need to intervene to assess the well-being of caregivers

5. The Caregiver’s Perspective
Open communication/truth-telling
Little attention has been paid to caregivers’ specific informational needs
Caregivers are expected to enter the new treatment setting with the patient and actively participate from the moment of diagnosis

6. Expectations for Caregivers
Assist with decision-making for treatment
Integrate new medical information
Learn new illness-related terminology
Adapt to a new setting
Find the time to accompany the patient to appointments

7. Interacting with Caregivers
Cultural assessment/needs
Offering trials on the first visit
Clear treatment information is key
Active listening to reduce caregiver burden
Frequent communication

8. Questions???