Nurse counsellors serve as the backbone of cancer care

Consultants and nurses usually focus their efforts on treating cancer and minimizing treatment-related side effects. However, cancer side effects are not merely confined to bodily manifestations, but also include emotional and psychological aspects.

Herein lies the role of a nurse counsellor. Whereas a nurse acts as a caregiver, a nurse counsellor has specialized and extensive clinical experience to manage patients, especially those requiring psychological support. Hence, nurse counsellors are like the invisible backbone needed to tackle an increasing global burden of cancer.      

A systematic review from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), Australia, looked through several studies on adult cancer patients receiving counselling from nurses and their experiences concluded that overall, cancer patients’ experiences with nurse counselling are favourable and useful. The presence and availability of nurses, as well as a trusting nurse-patient relationship, human touch, and continuity of care, were all important variables in promoting healing. [JBI Database System Rev Implement Rep 2018;16(10):1965–2012]

On a similar note, a survey conducted by the Sunway Cancer Centre, known as The Cancer Patient Journey, also arrived at the conclusion that integrative cancer care was the most valued service by cancer survivors throughout their recovery experience.

Chiew Lai Yee, a nurse counsellor specializing in breast cancer care, said: “Once diagnosed with cancer, patients often face a long and hard journey to access care, from the start to completion of treatment, and surviving it. During these periods of treatment, the absence of supportive care can lead to undesired outcomes such as dropping out or defaulting on treatment.”

In carrying out her duties, Chiew spends her time at work educating patients and their family members about their diagnosis and treatment options, as well as addressing symptoms and assisting patients in overcoming their worries. She provides patients with a clearer picture of their upcoming surgery and allays their fears, which will help them feel more secure and confident. “Pre- and post-operation, I spend time following up with my breast cancer patients and even making referrals if needed.”

Cancer care goes beyond surgery
A nurse counsellor’s work is not done as soon as a patient undergoes surgery. As more cancer patients survive their diagnosis, new challenges arise in the form of the lingering effects of cancer treatment or fear of recurrence. Cancer support groups led by nurse counsellors can help patients to manage these problems.

Traditionally, cancer sufferers preferred the support of family and friends over speaking with a professional. However, in recent times, patients have begun to communicate their concerns in confidence and seek advice and support from a nurse counsellor. Nurse counsellors like Chiew can focus on what is important to the patient through a nurse counsellor-led cancer support group or counselling session and play a vital role in improving or maintaining a patient’s positive attitude toward cancer.

The nurse counsellor’s roles can ultimately be identified through three themes: care-team member, decision coach and patient advocate. As a profession, the nurse counsellor is considered one of the most challenging yet rewarding vocations as it takes a uniquely qualified individual to do the job and do it well.