Historical overview of the care of oncological patients
Keywords:
history of oncology, oncology nursing, oncology diseases, oncosurgery, patientsAbstract
Caring for patients with oncological diseases is an integral part of the treatment process, in which medical activities and nursing care are in close interaction. Practicing in various structural units – oncological surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy inpatient units, oncological consulting rooms, hospices, oncological nurses must be able to grasp the complexity of treatment and care, requirements for working in an interdisciplinary team and the psychosocial needs of patients and their families. The aim of this study is to follow, through retrospective analysis, the evolution of treatment and healthcare for patients with cancer, against the background of scientific discoveries from the dawn of medicine to the present day. A documentary method was used: review of available literature and websites of key organizations for the development of oncology care. The theory and practice of clinical oncology dates back thousands of years. In parallel with the innovative approaches and discoveries over time, research and study of the characteristics of malignant diseases, health care for patients has also evolved affected by them. Care for oncological patients has transformed from care for the patient’s hygiene to specific, highly specialized and holistic. In oncological units, nurses provide care according to the needs of the patient, interpret data and protect patient safety by adhering to standards of good nursing practice, teach the patients how to live heaalthy with their chronic disease and participate in postgraduate training and cancer prevention programs, which requires updating and maintaining a high level of knowledge and experience. Conclusion: Despite advances in medicine and the evolution of healthcare, cancer remains among the leading causes of death worldwide. Cancer patients require constant, continuous, and comprehensive care throughout the disease continuum.
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