Psychosocial aspects of palliative care.

OBJECTIVES

To provide information about factors that affect psychosocial adjustment among individuals and families who are faced with chronic illness; to discuss assessment guidelines and risk factors that may indicate a need for professional intervention; and to review psychosocial interventions that are used to minimized distress and promote adaptation.

DATA SOURCES

Research studies, review articles, and book chapters.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of cancer patients experience emotional turmoil that occurs at transition points along the illness trajectory. Psychosocial issues faced by patients and their families are influenced by individual, sociocultural, medical, and family factors.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Supportive psychotherapeutic measures help to minimize distress, enhance feelings of control, and improve quality of life.