Caring for a patient with a fungating malignant lesion in a hospice setting: reflecting on practice.
This article attempts to demonstrate the process of using experiential learning to reflect on nursing practice. This will be discussed in relation to the Atkins and Murphy's model of reflection. A case study will be used to demonstrate the complex issues of symptom management and the implications for improving and maintaining a consistent quality of holistic care within a hospice. The case of 'Sylvia', a 68-year-old woman with a diagnosis of incurable cancer, will be discussed in relation to the management of a fungating malignant lesion, pain management, the control of malodour, and maintaining dignified and respectful care and optimizing self-esteem and quality of life.
Hawthorn
Maureen
M
Halton Haven Hospice, Runcorn, UK. mohawthorn@gmail.com
D000368:Aged; D002295:Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D007680:Kidney Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D016294:Models, Nursing; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009812:Odorants; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D012006:Rectovaginal Fistula / Q000209:etiology; D012649:Self Concept; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology; D013850:Thinking