Rehabilitation of the cancer patient at home.
OBJECTIVE
To provide a framework for considering home nursing care of the cancer patient within the context of cancer rehabilitation and to briefly review various aspects of cancer rehabilitation.


METHODS
Review articles and reference books of current and classic works that discuss cancer rehabilitation.


CONCLUSIONS
Rehabilitation is an important concept that should transcend cancer care in all settings, and one that naturally fits with home care. The effects of cancer and cancer treatment on the individual's quality of life, eg, psychological and social factors, sexual functioning, nutrition, fitness and exercise, symptom management, and physical disabilities are important considerations in the rehabilitation needs of persons with cancer.


CONCLUSIONS
It is the challenge of the home health nurse to promote optimal functioning of cancer patients in their home environment. Assessment of the cancer patient's rehabilitation needs, skilled interventions, establishment of realistic goals, and coordinating care between members of the rehabilitation team are major responsibilities.
Blesch
K S
KS
Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago 60612-7620, USA.
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D006699:Home Care Services; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D010348:Patient Care Team; D012917:Social Adjustment