Introduction The diagnosis of cancer leaves most patients and their families completely overwhelmed. Feelings of shock, disbelief, anger, fear, uncertainty, guilt, denial and isolation can often be experienced. These feelings are not uncommon and do not mean that you have not understood your diagnosis or that you are not coping with your illness. However, these emotions may prevent you from taking in important information during your hospital appointment. There are many issues for you to consider when you are told about cancer and many questions you will want to be answered. Kettering General Hospital has a specialised team (the Multidisciplinary team or MDT) who provide coordinated support for patients with lung cancer.
2
This team includes doctors with specialised knowledge of each aspect of diagnosis and treatment, and a specialist nurse team who support, advise and assist patients and provide information. Your nurse specialist team can ensure that you receive the support you need and answers to your individual questions. The MDT operates in more than one hospital. Kettering General Hospital has close links with Northampton General Hospital and Glenfield Hospital in Leicester, where specialist radiotherapy and chemotherapy services are provided, as well as surgery.
3
The Multidisciplinary Team (MDT)
Lead respiratory consultant who has overall responsibility for this service.
Surgical specialists who have been trained and maintain a special interest in techniques relevant to lung cancer.
Oncologists who have a special interest in lung cancer, who can offer both radiotherapy and chemotherapy where appropriate.
Radiologists who are skilled at interpreting CT scans and X-rays
Histopathologists who provide detailed information about the type of cancer.
Palliative care specialists who are skilled in symptom control with particular attention to the social and psychological wellbeing of the patient.
Lung cancer specialist nurses who are specifically trained in the areas of lung cancer and palliative care.
4
How we work for you
The multidisciplinary team meets weekly to discuss each patient. They ensure that all individual needs are met Including investigation, treatment and overall care.
The team maintains close contact with other professionals, both in the hospital and in the community, who are involved with supporting the patient or carrying out the care / management plan.
At every stage the team endeavours to provide clear, full and prompt information to patients and their relatives/carers. This information will be tailored to each patient's preferences and will be accompanied by information about sources of social and practical help.
5
The Lung Cancer Nurse Specialist role The lung cancer nurse specialist team will:
Act as your keyworker and main point of contact.
Help if you are unclear or concerned about any aspect of your care.
Work as a member of the lung cancer multidisciplinary team at Kettering General Hospital, to make sure that your care runs smoothly.
Liaise with other health professionals to provide continuity of care.
Give advice and support throughout your care to you and your family.
Have time to listen and help with any concerns or questions you may have.
Provide information about lung cancer and its treatment, if and when you want it.
Provide information on local and national cancer services and support groups.
Provide information regarding benefit entitlement for lung cancer patients.
The service provided is confidential.
6
Make notes of any questions you may have …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………
7
How to contact The Lung Cancer Nurse Specialist: Monday to Friday, except Bank Holidays 9.00am -5.00pm Direct line 01536 491239 An answer phone service is available if there is no one available to take your call. Please leave a message.
If you need to contact someone urgently please call your Doctor’s Surgery.
If you need this information in another format or language, please telephone 01536 492510. Further information about the Trust is available on the following websites: KGH - www.kgh.nhs.uk | NHS Choices - www.nhs.uk Ref: PI 183 November 2015
