| Family physician |
Relieve uncomfortable symptoms Support the oncologist by validating the patient’s understanding of his or her disease and, if necessary, providing additional information, especially about the prognosis Ideally, being involved right from the day the cancer is diagnosed, particularly if there is no nurse navigator (the case for approximately 40% of Quebec patients in 201019) Ensure the patient is prepared for bad news by suggesting he or she bring someone to the appointment Listen; be “present” and do not judge during follow-up care When it is realistic to do so, reassure the patient so that he or she can feel hopeful Be proactive and expedite tests and appointments when appropriate because the nurse does not have the same influence as the physicians have in this area If the patient does not have a nurse navigator, be prepared to take more time to listen to the patient’s need for reassurance When delivering bad news or when the patient is in distress, take at least a few moments to allow the patient to feel the feelings. For example, spend a few moments in silence Be as available as possible, particularly when the nurse navigator is not there (evenings and weekends) to avoid unnecessary trips to the emergency department Be proactive in cooperating and communicating with other care providers
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| Oncologist |
Make diagnoses, propose treatment, and provide care Ensure the patient receives all of the necessary information on his or her disease, treatment options, and prognosis Ensure the patient is prepared for bad news by suggesting he or she bring someone to the appointment Listen; be present and do not judge during follow-up care When it is realistic to do so, reassure the patient so that he or she can feel hopeful Be proactive and expedite tests and appointments when appropriate because the nurse does not have the same influence as the physicians have in this area If the patient does not have a nurse navigator, be prepared to take more time to listen to the patient’s need for reassurance When delivering bad news or when the patient is in distress, take at least a few moments to allow the patient to feel the feelings Be proactive in cooperating and communicating with other care providers
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| Nurse navigator |
Ensure that the patient really understands his or her disease, ideally by being there right after he or she hears the diagnosis. Consult the oncologist or family physician if the patient needs a physician’s expertise Follow the patient, ideally from the moment of the diagnosis of cancer Provide the patient with emotional support; validate his or her feelings; refer the patient to other professionals as needed Listen attentively; be present; do not judge during care Ensure the patient is comfortable Be proactive in cooperating and communicating with other care providers
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