Patient reactions can greatly differ when receiving news of recurrence or disappointing test results. It’s the job of the oncology nurse navigator or oncology patient navigator to meet them where they are emotionally and always be honest with them.
In part 1 of this 3-part series, I discussed how the oncology care team can prepare for these conversations by preparing themselves and the patient at the beginning of treatment. In part 2, I provided advice for oncology professionals who fear these conversations and how they can make a patient more comfortable. In this installment, I will discuss the different reactions patients can have and how navigators can help.
